How To Visit London On A Budget
London, the bustling capital of England, is a city filled with history, culture, and charm. While it may be known for its high-end luxury and expensive attractions, there is a whole world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by budget travelers wanting to visit London on a budget.
In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the lesser-known, budget-friendly side of London.
From affordable accommodations to free attractions and local tips for saving money, you can experience the best of this vibrant city without breaking the bank.
Benefits of budget travel to London
Embarking on a budget-friendly trip to London offers a multitude of benefits. Not only does it allow you to explore the city without straining your wallet, but it also provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the authentic soul of London.
By venturing off the beaten path, you can stumble upon hidden treasures that are often overlooked by tourists. These hidden gems offer a more genuine and intimate experience, allowing you to connect with the true essence of the city.
I am also a firm believer in the fact that everyone has the right to travel. By planning to visit London on a budget, you will be able to experience more than you thought and allow yourself to save for even more trips in future.
Planning your budget-friendly trip to London
Before setting off on your budget-friendly adventure to London, it’s essential to plan and prepare. Start by setting a realistic budget that takes into account your accommodation, transportation, meals, and attractions.
Research the best time to visit, as certain seasons may offer better deals and discounts.
Look for budget-friendly flights or consider alternative transportation options such as trains or buses. By planning ahead, you can make the most of your trip while keeping your expenses in check.
A great way to plan is to keep a travel journal or itinerary.
Transportation options in London
London has lots of options for public transport. Many of them are affordable however, some are more affordable than others. Here’s how to choose which one is right for you when planning to visit London on a budget.
London Underground
The London Underground is a train network that runs underneath the city. It is generally quite an affordable way to travel around the city – especially considering how efficient it is. It can get you across the city in the nick of time. If you’re doing a lot of traveling in one day, have a look at zone tickets that last all day as this can save you money.
For some, the London Underground can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Check out my Guide to London Underground Anxiety to discover different ways to cope with fear of the tube.
London Bus
If you don’t mind taking a little longer to get to your destination, then catching a London bus is a great option.
They are more affordable than the tube, although not quite as efficient. The red double-deckers are also an iconic part of the London visual experience.
The best thing about the bus, in my opinion, is that you get to see the sights out of the window as you travel, rather than the pitch blackness of the Underground tunnels.
Boris Bikes
Boris Bikes are found all over the city. They are hireable bikes you can use to get to any location and drop them off wherever you arrive.
These are an even more affordable and efficient way of traveling. For confident cyclists, you can get just about anywhere in London on a bike. For everyone else, these are not the best option for main roads, but make for a perfect way to enjoy London’s many beautiful parks.
Walking
While walking isn’t the best way to get from one side of the city to another, it is absolutely perfect for short distances.
London is a great place for walking – with footpaths, signposts and road crossings just about everywhere.
Best of all? It’s completely free!
Simply search for your destination on a map and get strolling. This is another great way to see the sights as you go, allowing you to stop and explore whenever you feel the urge.
Affordable accommodation in London
Finding affordable accommodation in London can feel daunting, but it is absolutely doable. With a couple of compromises, you can find accommodation that suits you when you visit London on a budget.
Staying outside the centre
Often, staying outside the city center can save you a lot of money. Staying south of the river is often a great way to make sure you don’t have too far to travel while still cutting costs.
Make sure to double check tube and bus connections before you book, as well as how long the walk is from the tube stop to your hostel. Whilst you’re staying out of the hustle and bustle, you still want to make sure you’re able to get around without getting lost, delayed or stuck out of the way.
Hostels
Hostels may not be for everyone, but don’t write them off straight away! While staying in a room with others may seem strange if you’ve never done it before, many people actually fall in love with the whole experience.
Plus, it’s one of the best ways to save money!
There are hostels all over London that offer affordable accommodation of many different types. Whilst you not only save money on the bed itself, they also often offer breakfast included or a private kitchen where you can cook your own meals. These help save money on buying food out and can make a massive difference.
Plus, staying in a room with others can actually be great fun. Often, the people you share a room with are looking to explore the city on a budget too, and you might surprise yourself by getting to know them, what they’ve been up to and sharing tips on exploring the city.
Top 5 London Hostels
While there are tops of hostels across London, here are my top 5 faves.
1.Clink 261, Camden – Modern design with up to date amenities. Private lockers in every room and great for night life.
2. Safestay London Elephant and Castle, Southwark – Historical building with free wifi and lockers. Fresh pastries served for breakfast and a 15 min journey from top tourist spots.
3. The Mornington, Camden – A female-only hostel with free bikes and a garden. Each room has a private bathroom. Great location for the nightlife of Camden Town.
4. Publove @ The White Ferry, Victoria – A London favourite hostel in a traditional British pub serving award-winning food.
5. Hootenanny Hostel, Lambeth – Friendly hostel with open lounge and kitchen area. Guests get money off drinks at the bar, which is also a top London music
If you want to find out about even more great hostels in London check out my guide to the Top 20 Affordable Hostels in London.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions in London
It might surprise you to know that there are actually many free and low-cost attractions in London. In fact, you could fill an entire week with just these alone and have a great time while you visit London on a budget. Here are some of the best:
Museums
British Museum
- Home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
- Highlights include the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies.
- Free admission.
Natural History Museum:
- Explore the natural world through exhibits on dinosaurs, gems, and the Earth’s history.
- Don’t miss the impressive Diplodocus skeleton in the main hall.
- Free entry with donation suggestions.
Science Museum:
- A hands-on museum with interactive exhibits on science, technology, and innovation.
- Perfect for all ages, with sections on space, robotics, and more.
- Free admission, but some special exhibits may have a fee.
Museum of London:
- Chronicles the history of London from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Features a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays.
- Free general admission.
Sir John Soane’s Museum:
- A unique house-museum showcasing the eclectic collection of Sir John Soane.
- Includes art, antiquities, and architectural curiosities.
- Free entry, but donations are appreciated.
Art Galleries
The National Gallery:
- Houses a superb collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
- See famous works by artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet.
- Free general admission.
Tate Modern:
- Contemporary art museum located in a former power station.
- Features works by modern and contemporary artists, including Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
- Free entry, but special exhibitions may require tickets.
Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A):
- A world-class museum dedicated to art, design, and fashion.
- Explore collections ranging from fashion to medieval art and contemporary design.
- General admission is free, but some special exhibitions may require tickets.
Parks
Hyde Park:
- One of the largest and most famous parks in London.
- Features the Serpentine Lake, where you can rent paddle boats.
- Home to the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
Regent’s Park:
- Beautiful landscaped gardens with formal flower displays.
- Home to the world-famous London Zoo.
- Offers open-air theater and boating on the lake.
Greenwich Park:
- Offers stunning views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf.
- Home to the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line.
- Perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
Kensington Gardens:
- Adjacent to Hyde Park, offering a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Home to Kensington Palace and the stunning Italian Gardens.
- Serpentine Gallery is a hub for contemporary art exhibitions.
Richmond Park:
- The largest Royal Park in London with a diverse wildlife population.
- Popular for deer watching and scenic bike rides.
- The Isabella Plantation features beautiful gardens.
St. James’s Park:
- Located near Buckingham Palace, ideal for a royal stroll.
- Features a lake, resident pelicans, and lovely flower beds.
- Enjoy views of the Horse Guards Parade and The Mall.
Hampstead Heath:
- A vast, hilly park with woodlands, swimming ponds, and meadows.
- Parliament Hill offers panoramic views of the London skyline.
- Perfect for kite-flying, picnics, and outdoor swimming.
Victoria Park:
- Known as “Vicky Park,” it offers serene canals and lakes.
- Popular for jogging, sports, and summer festivals.
- Enjoy boat rentals and cafes around the lake.
Holland Park:
- A hidden gem with beautiful gardens and a Japanese Kyoto Garden.
- Features the open-air Holland Park Theatre.
- A peaceful escape in the heart of Kensington.
Battersea Park:
- Nestled along the Thames, offering a boating lake and fountains.
- Features the renowned Pump House Gallery.
- Ideal for family outings and sports activities.
Brockwell Park:
- Located in South London with a scenic lido and sports facilities.
- Home to the Grade II-listed Brockwell Hall.
- Hosts cultural events, including music festivals.
These parks offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences, from leisurely strolls to active adventures. Be sure to check park-specific activities, opening hours, and any special events or seasonal changes on their official websites when planning your visit.
Budget-friendly dining options in London
Pack food
This is for the ultimate savers. Buy whatever you need at the supermarket, make it up in your hotel room or hostel kitchen, and then take it out with you.
Make sure to buy things that don’t need refrigerating such as bread, peanut butter and instant noodles if you have a kettle.
Beware – if you’re going to a theatre show or museum, you may not be able to take food in with you.
However, this is a great way to save money on food in London.
Meal Deals
Many places in London do meal deals. This is where you can buy a sandwich, snack, and drink altogether at a discounted price. The places that do meal deals are all over the city and can save you much more than eating in a cafe or restaurant. Keep an eye out for:
- Tesco
- Asda
- Morrisons
- W H Smith
- Boots
As many of these places for meal deals can be found all over the city.
Affordable Restaurants
It might surprise you to know how many affordable places there are to eat in London. From a range of cuisines, there is delicious food across the city at an amazingly affordable price. Here are some of my favourites.
Govindas, Soho
A personal favourite and only a few minutes walk from Shaftesbury Avenue. Govindas is run by Hare Krishnas and offers vegan and vegetarian Indian food for an amazing price. Each individual item (curry, rice, samosa, cake) costs anywhere from £1-5. For instance, you can get a samosa for £1.25, a veg curry for £3.50 or a veggie burger for £4.95.
The best option here is get a set platter. This way, you can get a selection of items at a discounted rate, including 5 items for £7.95 or 12 items for £15.95.
The Beigel Shop, Brick Lane
This is London’s very first bagel shop, opening in 1855, and still a favourite of Londoners today. It is open 24/7 so you are able to get a bagel whenever you want one! They have a number of bagel bread and fillings including cheeses, meats, and more. For large and delicious bagels for as little as £2, it’s hard to go wrong here.
Norman’s Cafe, Tufnell Park
If you want to give classic English grub a go, then Norman’s Cafe is the place to head. With affordable British classics such as beans on toast, bacon sarnies and full English breakfast, this is the best place to get classic filling and satisfying English food on a budget. With cups of tea for £1, sandwiches for £5 and a Full English for £8, it’s hard to find anywhere better for your money than this.
Kowloon Bakery, China Town
This wonderful Chinese bakery is attached to a big buffet. While this is a great option if you want to sit and eat as much as you like, the bakery is the place to find the real affordable gems. Here, you will find affordable bakes with delicious fillings – for example, their popular BBQ Pork Bun, which costs as little as £1.80! With many options around the same place, this is a great option for saving money.
Club Mexicana, Soho
If you’re a fan of Mexican food and vegan food, then this is the perfect place to head. Plus, it’s an affordable place to eat. What more could you want? With creations such as jackfruit rib and tofish taco, you will surely find something delicious to suit you here. With one taco costing £4, 3 costing £10 and burritos costing £9 it will be easy to fill up for a small amount of money here.
Local Tips for Saving Money in London
To make the most of when you visit London on a budget, here are some local tips for saving money:
- Take advantage of free walking tours offered by local organizations to explore the city and learn about its history and culture.
- Use apps and websites to find discounts and deals on attractions, transportation, and dining.
- Purchase a London Pass, which provides discounted access to various attractions and can help you save money.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of London’s many parks instead of dining out for every meal.
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at bars and pubs, where you can enjoy discounted drinks and food.
Now you know how to visit London on a budget
London may be known for its high prices, but with careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to this magnificent city.
By exploring London’s hidden gems, taking advantage of affordable accommodations, and indulging in free and low-cost attractions, you can create memories that will last a lifetime without breaking the bank.
So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a budget-friendly journey to discover the vibrant and captivating city of London by making sure you visit London on a budget.
Thank you so much for reading and I hope to see you back here again soon.
Ta-ta for now! x
