But London is also known for being on the expensive side. However, with a little creativity and planning, it’s possible to explore the city on little to no budget.
Here we’ll take a look at some of the best budget-friendly attractions and activities in London, that’ll allow you to make the most of your time in this exciting and captivating city.
When to Visit
The first obstacle on your trip to London is the journey itself. Summer (June to August) and also Christmas/New Year are two of the most popular and most expensive times of the year to visit with accommodation at a premium during these times. Avoid these periods to save money.
Getting Around
London has one of the most expensive public transport systems in the world, and it’s important to find the cheapest way possible to travel if you want to cut down on outgoings. While being spontaneous is fun, saving money is much better.
Organising your transport ahead of time means you’re more likely to find cheap train tickets to London. Additionally, try to avoid travelling during peak times, as prices can be twice as expensive.
Once you’re in London, aim to walk wherever possible. Landmarks are all within a short distance from each other and it’s much cheaper than hailing a taxi. Plus, you’ll spend less time stuck in traffic and more time exploring the city.
Visit Museums
London is host to a wide selection of world-class museums that allow you to enter for free.
This tends to be exclusively for their permanent collections and not temporary exhibitions. One of the top museums is the Natural History Museum, a huge building filled with specular halls that feature exhibits from that natural world. You won’t want to miss their giant blue whale skeleton.
Then there’s the National Gallery, home to 2,000 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th Century. Art fanatics will love being able to feast their eyes on the likes of Van Gogh, Caravaggio, and Da Vinci.
Free Tourist Attractions
Although you can easily spend a lot of money in London a lot of the most famous attractions can be seen for free.
Experiencing the grand tradition of the Changing of the Guard first-hand at Buckingham Palace is a must during your time in London. Watch as the guards perform their ceremonial duties with precision, dressed in their traditional attire of red uniforms and bearskin hats.
While the event is free, make sure to turn up fairly early before it is expected to take place, should you want to secure a good spot, as this always attracts large crowds.
Relax in the Parks and Gardens
Take time away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre in one of London’s parks and gardens.
The parks are free to roam, offering scenic beauty within a tranquil setting. So, why not take a stroll through Hyde Park and visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain? Or head over to Regent’s Park, which is home to the stunning Queen Mary’s Rose Garden and the London Zoo?
Whatever you decide, these serene outdoor spaces provide the perfect opportunity for a picnic and a nice rest after a long day of exploring.
