By WanTing Wong, 3rd Year Chemistry with Biomedicine MSci
London is a dynamic city bursting with rich history, iconic culture, and many exciting entertainment options to offer. It is also one of the most expensive cities – between transport costs, expensive meals, and pricey attractions, exploring London can quickly drain your wallet and leave you questioning your fiscal management.
The good news: you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience the best of London’s offers. So let me share some tips to enjoy London without overspending.
Free attractions and sightseeing
If there’s one thing London does exceptionally well, it’s museums and galleries. The city is home to some of the world’s most renowned artworks, from the popular Tate Modern and National Gallery to the hidden gems like the Sir John Sloane Museum and the Wallace Collection. There are also some boutique art galleries in areas like Mayfair and Kensington.
The best thing? Their permanent exhibitions are free to visit! For passionate enjoyers and supporters of the arts, many museums offer membership, which gives you free priority access to their more exclusive temporary exhibitions, amongst other perks.
London’s museum scene is not limited to art, there are plenty of other non-art museums, such as the infamous British Museum, National History, and the Science Museum, available for History and Science lovers to enjoy at no cost. So whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, London’s museums provide endless opportunities without bankrupting you.
Walking tours
Another great way to explore London on a budget is through walking tours or cycling if you prefer. The city is incredibly walkable, allowing you to discover hidden streets and unique boroughs that you might miss when taking the Tube. Walking tours can be easily customised based on the areas you want to explore and how far you’re willing to walk.
Here are some of my favorite routes:
- Camden > Primrose Hill > Regent’s Park for one of the best panoramic views of London.
- Tower Bridge > St Paul’s Cathedral > Millennium Bridge > London Eye > Big Ben > Buckingham Palace for anyone wanting to see London’s most iconic landmarks in one go.
- Broadway Market > Borough Market > Southbank Market > Covent Garden > Chinatown/Soho for some of London’s best foods.
Go where the students are!
When it comes to eating out in London, meals or even the occasional sweet treats and coffee can add up quickly. A great way to save money is to dine near universities, where restaurants and cafes tend to have budget-friendly menus to cater to students. Many spots also offer student discounts, so don’t forget to ask before you pay!
Student discounts!!
On the same note, always look for student discounts! They’re one of the (only) great financial perks of being a student, and apps like UniDays and StudentBeans make it easy to navigate and search for student discounts on shopping, entertainment, and food. Some cultural student societies also partner with restaurants to provide discounts for their members.
Be on the lookout for exciting pop-ups
One of the most exciting ways to experience London on a budget is through its everchanging pop-up scene. From street food markets and independent boutiques to immersive art installations, pop-ups offer a taste of the city’s creativity without the hefty price tag. Even big brands host pop-ups featuring unique exclusive experiences and freebies. To stay updated, follow platforms like Eventbrite and Time Out London, as well as independent social media accounts that curate the latest pop-up events across the city.
So there you have it! Exploring London on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on all the incredible experiences the city has to offer. With so many free and affordable activities, there’s always something new to discover. So go out, explore, and make the most of everything London has to offer.
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