What To Do in London on a Budget

Are you planning a trip to London but worried about the expenses? Don't let the city's reputation for being expensive deter you from exploring all it has to offer. London has a plenty of affordable activities that won't leave a dent in your bank. From exploring historic landmarks to experiencing local culture, there's something for everyone. In this blog, we've rounded up some affordable activities that you can't miss on your next trip to London. So, whether you're a budget traveller or just looking for some fun activities without breaking the bank, read on to discover some of the best affordable things to do in London. Get ready to experience the city like a local, without worrying about the cost!

Why Visit London on a Budget?

London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. It's a city full of history, culture, and diversity. However, it's also known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. But that shouldn't stop you from visiting this vibrant city. By visiting London on a budget, you can still experience all the city has to offer without breaking the bank. Not only will you save money, but you'll also get to experience the city like a local. From free museums to affordable food options, London has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly holiday destination, London should definitely be on your list.

Free Activities in London - Museums and Galleries

One of the best things about London is that many of its museums and galleries are free to enter. This makes it a great destination for budget travellers who want to soak up some culture without spending a fortune. Here are some of the best free museums and galleries in London:

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it's also free to enter. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts from all over the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. You could easily spend an entire day exploring the museum's various galleries, which cover everything from ancient Egypt to modern-day Asia.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is another must-visit museum in London, and it's also free to enter. The museum is located in a former power station on the banks of the River Thames and is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum's permanent collection includes works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.

National Gallery

The National Gallery is another free museum in London that's worth a visit. The museum is home to over 2,300 paintings, including works by Van Gogh, Botticelli, and da Vinci. The museum's collection spans from the 13th to the 19th century and is housed in a stunning neoclassical building in Trafalgar Square.

Cheap Activities in London - Markets and Parks

If you're looking for some affordable activities in London, then you can't go wrong with visiting some of the city's markets and parks. Here are some of the best cheap activities in London:

Camden Market

Camden Market is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting London. It's a bustling market that's home to over 1,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to street food. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the market and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is one of the largest green spaces in London and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to the Royal Observatory, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. You can also visit the park's flower gardens or watch the deer grazing in the park's open fields.

Borough Market

Borough Market is another popular market in London that's worth a visit. It's a foodie's paradise, with over 100 stalls selling everything from artisanal cheeses to fresh seafood. You can sample some of the best food in London at this market, and it won't cost you a fortune.

Budget-Friendly Food Options in London

London is known for its diverse culinary scene, but it can also be expensive to eat out. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly food options in the city if you know where to look. Here are some of the best affordable food options in London:

Brick Lane

Brick Lane is a famous street in London that's known for its curry houses. You can find some of the best Indian food in the city here, and it won't cost you a fortune. You can also explore the street's vintage shops and street art while you're there.

Franco Manca

Franco Manca is a popular pizza chain in London that's known for its sourdough pizzas. The pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and are incredibly affordable, with prices starting at just £5! You can find Franco Manca locations all over the city, so it's a great option for a quick and affordable meal.

Borough Market (again!)

Borough Market isn't just a great place to sample food; it's also a great place to buy ingredients for a budget-friendly meal. You can find fresh produce, meat, and fish at this market, and it's a great place to stock up on ingredients for a picnic in one of London's parks.

Discount Passes and Deals for London Attractions

If you're planning on visiting several paid attractions in London, then it's worth considering purchasing a discount pass. These passes can help you save money on admission fees and can also give you skip-the-line access to some of the city's most popular attractions. Here are some of the best discount passes and deals for London attractions:

London Pass

The London Pass is a popular discount pass that gives you access to over 80 attractions in the city. You can choose from a 1, 2, 3, 6, or 10-day pass, depending on how long you're staying in the city. The pass also includes skip-the-line access to some of the city's most popular attractions, such as the Tower of London and the London Eye.

2-for-1 Deals

If you're traveling with a partner or a friend, then it's worth looking into 2-for-1 deals for London attractions. These deals are available if you're traveling by train, and they allow you to get 2-for-1 admission to some of the city's most popular attractions. All you need to do is show your train ticket at the attraction's ticket office to receive the discount.

London Explorer Pass

The London Explorer Pass is another popular discount pass that gives you access to up to 7 attractions in the city. You can choose which attractions you want to visit, and the pass is valid for up to 30 days after your first visit. The pass also includes skip-the-line access to some of the city's most popular attractions.

Overall London is a city full of history, culture, and diversity, and it's a destination that everyone should visit at least once. But that doesn't mean you have to break the bank to do so. By visiting London on a budget, you can still experience all the city has to offer without spending a fortune. From free museums to affordable food options, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities in London. So, if you're planning a trip to the city, make sure to add some of these affordable activities to your itinerary. You won't regret it!

If you've found something you'd like to do while exploring London on a budget, why not study English in London with us at our London Centre?