budget travel in london

Top tips for visiting London on a budget

Mar 11, 2024 • 7 min read

You can see the best of London without blowing your budget © AzmanJaka / Getty Images

London has a reputation as one of the most eye-wateringly expensive cities to visit in Europe. Its fame and global appeal have long made it a top "bucket list" destination, with jacked-up accommodation prices and exorbitantly priced experiences, from swanky fine dining to designer shopping.

But there are easy ways to enjoy London without taking out a giant bank loan. Follow these transport, accommodation and meal hacks to save stacks of cash when exploring England's capital.

Daily costs

• Dorm bed in a hostel: £15–30
• Basic hotel room for two: £100–200
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from £100
• Daily transport travel card: £15.20
• Cup of coffee: £2–6
• Lunchtime sandwich: £3–8
• Three-course restaurant dinner for two: from £80
• A pint of beer at the bar: £4–8
• Theatre ticket for a West End show: £25
• Average daily cost: £200

Flying is generally the cheapest way to get to London

Europe's budget airlines, including EasyJet , Ryanair , Wizz Air , Wow Air and others offer hugely competitive fares to the UK capital. However, check which airport you are flying into, as you may have to tag on the price of a costly train fare if you arrive at an airport farther from the center (including London Stansted, London Southend, London Luton and London Gatwick). Also check flight times, as arriving early in the morning (particularly on a weekday) can mean tricky transport links, and possibly a pricey taxi transfer to town.

Stay outside central London to find lower overnight rates

London is divided into nine transport zones, with the most expensive accommodations found in the center in Zone 1 and Zone 2. To save money on accommodation rates, consider staying in Zone 3 or Zone 4 near a Tube station – you'll pay less and you can still take public transport to the main attractions. Good deals can be found in areas such as Stratford and Islington, or try near King’s Cross if you must be downtown. Budget motel-style hotels such as Premier Inn and Travelodge are another option, as are hostels for solo travelers. Prices for Airbnb apartments can also be reasonable if you're traveling in a group (stay in the suburbs for lower rates).

Take a walk or use public transport to get around

London is a huge, sprawling city – it would take more than a day to walk across town from east to west. However, in central London, distances between attractions are very walkable, often along atmospheric old streets lined with historic buildings. When your legs get weary, hop on a red London bus or take the Tube to cover more distance.

Another great option is to rent a Santander Cycle from one of the docking stations dotted around the center. This budget transport option costs less than £2 per day, allowing unlimited trips if you ride and dock within 30 minutes on each trip.

Take advantage of pre-theater restaurant deals

Dinner in the West End is usually cheaper if you go before the curtain call. Many restaurants in London's "Theatreland" offer three-course meals for a fraction of the regular price, starting from when they open at around 5pm until around 7:30pm, on the condition that you'll be gone by the time the shows start. Another option is to dine out earlier in the week (Monday to Wednesday) when restaurants and pubs offer "Taco Tuesdays" and "Steak Clubs" and other similar offers. 

Buy theater tickets far in advance

Sign up to theater mailing lists when you book your trip to London, and whenever a show you are interested in begins its run. Tickets in the West End can cost as little as £20 booked ahead of time, but you might pay hundreds if you leave booking to the day before. Some last-minute theater booking websites may have tickets available for the next day, but these will likely cost you more.

Budget diners should look for end-of-the-night deals

Apps such as Too Good To Go can help you find takeaway meals at restaurants just before closing time, at a fraction of the normal price. Sometimes the food can be a mixed bag, and you may not know what you’ll be getting until you turn up – it's not ideal for fussy eaters, but it helps restaurants reduce food waste, serving up portions that would typically be thrown away.

Save money on attractions with a discount pass

Buy a London Pass and you'll get free entry to some 80 attractions in the city, including the Tower of London , Hampton Court Palace , London Zoo and Windsor Castle . If you plan on visiting multiple sights over several days, the savings can be considerable. If you intend to visit royal attractions such as the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace , consider getting a Historic Royal Palaces annual membership (from £55 for unlimited entries), as admission fees for these attractions average around the £25 mark for each visit.

Hit the free museums and galleries

One of the best things about London is the fact that many of its world-class attractions don’t charge a penny, from the extraordinary Natural History Museum and Science Museum to the magnificent Tate Modern . There are also free theater shows, music concerts, movie screenings and more (read our guide to free London for tips).

Eat street food at London’s many markets

Visiting London's street markets will give you a chance to support local vendors, and you'll also get to sample home-grown British produce and all sorts of flavors from around the world, often for just a few pounds. Camden Market , Borough Market , Seven Dials Market and Broadway Market are some of the best. Many vendors are happy to offer free samples before you buy.

Eat local foods to save on cash

There’s a reason we say "cheap as chips" – a bag of chips in a local chippy (fish and chips joint) should only set you back a few pounds if you head out of the center. It’s one of the cheapest, most filling meals you can eat in the capital. Alternatively, hit a local "greasy spoon" cafe – these traditionally working-class joints offer breakfasts (usually fried) for less than £10 in a cafeteria-like setting.

Head to a traditional East End pie-and-mash shop to try another working-class delicacy that won’t break the bank; expect to pay £5–15 for a full liquor-slathered pie with mashed potatoes. Alternatively, eat at the pub, where meals are usually a fraction of the price of a restaurant (again, head out of central London to get the most bang for your buck). Also, seek out all-you-can-eat curry buffets (like the one served by Indian Veg in Islington’s Chapel Market) to load up on tasty Indian dishes for around £15.

Go to a BYOB restaurant

Dining establishments without a liquor license often allow patrons to bring their own bottles of booze, either for free or with a small corkage charge. This means you can get your plonk in a supermarket for a fraction of the price charged by restaurants, and save a ton on service charges too.

Hit the happy hour drinks deals

If you’re prepared to drink early – typically between 3pm and 6pm – you'll save money on cocktails, beers and wines in London. Look for details of the best happy hour deals on listings websites such as Design My Night , Time Out , Secret London and London Drinks Guide . Happy hours usually run from Monday to Friday and target workers leaving the office early.

Students, children and over-60s get discounts

Discounts for students, children and the over-60s are available at many tourist attractions, at some entertainment venues and on public transport. Checking for these discounts every time is an easy way to save cash. Free events are regularly held for these groups too; check on attraction websites and social media for upcoming deals.

Check for voucher deals online 

Spas, tour companies, stores, restaurants and some tourist sights offer regular voucher deals online (see websites such as VoucherCodes , Groupon and Wowcher ). Also look out for promo coupons for family attractions such as the London Aquarium and Legoland Windsor on packets of snacks and breakfast cereals. It’s well worth checking for internet or app deals before you book any London experience.

This article was first published Sep 8, 2023 and updated Mar 11, 2024.

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for London Visit London on a Budget or Travel in Style

• London Costs

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• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to London?

You should plan to spend around $236 (£190) per day on your vacation in London. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $43 (£34) on meals
• $32 (£26) on local transportation
• $306 (£246) on hotels

A one week trip to London for two people costs, on average, $3,305 (£2,653) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 236 £ 190
• One Week Per person $ 1,653 £ 1,327
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 3,305 £ 2,653
• One Month Per person $ 7,082 £ 5,686
• One Week For a couple $ 3,305 £ 2,653
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 6,610 £ 5,306
• One Month For a couple $ 14,165 £ 11,371

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to London cost?

A one week trip to London usually costs around $1,653 (£1,327) for one person and $3,305 (£2,653) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to London on average costs around $3,305 (£2,653) for one person and $6,610 (£5,306) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in London will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to London on average costs around $7,082 (£5,686) for one person and $14,165 (£11,371) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to London has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in London are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, London is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Basel or Bellagio.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is London Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to London?

The average London trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these London travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in London

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in London is $153 (£123). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in London is $306 (£246). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 153 £ 123
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 306 £ 246

Hotel Prices in London

Looking for a hotel in London? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in London based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $126. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Premier Inn London Angel Islington Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 95
• Hotel 41 Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 368

Transportation Budget in London

The cost of a taxi ride in London is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $32 (£26) per person, per day, on local transportation in London.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 32 £ 26

Recommended Services

• Windsor Castle - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return Viator $ 291
• Shuttle transfer from your Hotel To Heathrow Airport - Super Saver Viator $ 57

Flights to London

Rental cars in london, what did other people spend on transportation in london.

Typical prices for Transportation in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Taxi Ride £ 15
• Heathrow Express £ 18
• Luggage Storage £ 8.00
• London Map £ 1.29
• Oyster Card £ 36
• Train to Gatwick Airport (2) £ 22
• Oyster Card £ 27

Food Budget in London

While meal prices in London can vary, the average cost of food in London is $43 (£34) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in London should cost around $17 (£14) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in London is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 43 £ 34

Recommended

• Traditional English Walking Food Tour With London Food Tours Viator $ 95
• Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour Viator $ 44

What did other people spend on Food in London?

Typical prices for Food in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch at Starbucks £ 13
• Tea £ 6.00
• Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason £ 39
• Morning Tea £ 6.35
• Pastry £ 5.00
• Sushi Dinner for One £ 18

Entertainment Budget in London

Entertainment and activities in London typically cost an average of $41 (£33) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 41 £ 33

The Go City London Pass offers great discounts on attractions in London. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• British Museum & National Gallery of London Guided Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl… Viator $ 202
• Walking Tour around Spitalfields in the East End of London Viator $ 82

What did other people spend on Entertainment in London?

Typical prices for Entertainment in London are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in London, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Two Tickets to a Concert £ 83
• London Symphony Orchestra £ 34
• London Pass £ 47
• Comedy Show £ 8.00

Tips and Handouts Budget in London

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in London is $4.18 (£3.35) per day. The usual amount for a tip in London is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 4.18 £ 3.35

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in London

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in London is $23 (£18), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 23 £ 18

Alcohol Budget in London

The average person spends about $19 (£15) on alcoholic beverages in London per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19 £ 15
• Pub Tour of Notting Hill & Kensington Viator $ 77
• Pub Tour London (Drinking History) Viator $ 158

Water Budget in London

On average, people spend $5.04 (£4.04) on bottled water in London per day. The public water in London is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 5.04 £ 4.04

Related Articles

London on a budget.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Travel Tips for Visiting London on a Budget

Mark D. Kahler

Visiting London on a budget can be challenging, because this is among the world's most expensive cities. Each year, many prospective tourists -- people who would enjoy themselves very much in this city -- bypass London because of high costs.

But it is possible to visit this vibrant, historic city on a budget. Here are some strategies for dealing with the price of a trip to London. Check out budget travel tips for airfares, hotels, transportation, things to do, dining, attractions and even a short layover on the way to another city. 

London Airfare

It is set up as few other cities for economical travel. There are six major airports in the region that serve hundreds of commercial flights a day. With this much volume, there are many more chances for the budget traveler to snag a bargain ticket. Check out some strategies to get started with your search.

London Hotels

A typical London hotel room is undersized and overpriced. But there are ways to save. Consider London's budget hotels, bed & breakfast options, hostels or apartment rentals. Start looking for ways to save money for London accommodations on a budget .

London Transport

What's the cheapest way to get around London? The answer depends upon your plans. If you're planning to spend most of your time in Central London, there's little doubt The Tube is your most efficient and economical option. Take a look at tips for public transport and car rental.

London Things to Do

London is a city with famous attractions that are often viewed as "must visits." Some of them are expensive. But you can balance those expenditures with plenty of free or inexpensive activities. Attending Broadway-quality productions is cheaper in London than New York.

London Restaurants

Many travelers will tell you London is not known for its food. You'll do better in other European capitals such as Paris and Rome. While that might be true for many tastes, don't discount the variety of budget choices London offers travelers. From pubs to the area's thousands of small ethnic restaurants, you're bound to find a satisfying cheap meal on a budget in London.

London is famous for Parliament and Savile Row.

For many, it is not a place to visit solely for its cuisine. People who feel this way tend to have food-critic tastes and budgets to match.

As with all stereotypes, this one fades with each passing year. Excellent food and reasonable prices are not that hard to find. In fact, the cosmopolitan nature of this vast city makes it one of the best locations on earth for sampling a variety of dishes.

Let's start with breakfast.

Bed-and-breakfast establishments typically offer a morning meal that will tide you over until dinner. Lunch need not be more than a snack. If you stay at a conventional hotel where breakfast is not included, consider this: Unlike Paris and many other European cities, you can find hearty breakfasts in restaurants here that will not break the budget.

Lunch and even dinner can be a "picnic" assembled at London's markets.

London pub tours have long been a place to enjoy an inexpensive meal and incomparable atmosphere. Beware: developers are putting up imitations of the authentic neighborhood pubs throughout the city. The imitations are frequently long on expense and short on authenticity.

London is a great place to employ a sound budget dining strategy. The idea is to eat a big, free breakfast when possible, take it easy on lunch, and save the bulk of your food budget for nice dinners that expose you to the culture of your destination.

There are a number of guides that give information based on price ranges, generally using "expensive-moderate-inexpensive" or similar designations.

London Dining Guide  provides links to restaurants in a fairly wide area.

Other guides are less structured, and often assembled by students or people with an interest in helping visitors to London.

London Eye - Review

 TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

It's one of the most popular attractions in London, but it can rank among the most expensive when you have a larger travel party at peak tourist season. What's worse, it can cost you precious time waiting in line. Consider your interests, budget and time constraints carefully before you plan a visit to London Eye -- with help from this review.

London Layovers on a Budget

It happens to many travelers in Europe: you find yourself with a lengthy layover in London or with 10 hours to switch from one major airport to another before your journey can continue. It is possible to take in a few sights on a budget if you know how to plan for a London layover .

London Budget Travel Mistakes

In any city that attracts large numbers of visitors, there are traps (both intended and otherwise) that will cost you money. In London, some first-time visitors are intimidated when confronted with public transport, opting for expensive cabs instead. Don't allow your initial reactions to result in added costs. You'll save money and that other precious resource of time.

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London on a Budget: 15 Cheap Travel Tips

Home » Destinations » Europe » UK » London on a Budget: 15 Cheap Travel Tips

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Updated: 1st March 2023

“But isn’t London super expensive?”  is one of the most common questions I’m asked when talking about travel to the United Kingdom’s capital. And, while it might be a surprising answer, I always reply that cheap may be a stretch – but London on a budget? Absolutely!

There are heaps of tips and tricks you can follow to cut your costs and make a stay in one of England’s best places to visit more affordable. Take it from an ex-local who survived in this city as a waiter for more than a few years; you can make your pound go much further if you know how.

Of course, all the usual stuff applies: visit in the off-season, avoid dates when huge events mean prices spike, and consider hostels or further-out accommodation. But, rather than focusing on the obvious that can apply anywhere, I’ve tried to focus more on London-specific tips and ways I’ve personally tried to do London on the cheap while living here.

So, before even thinking about all the best things to do in London – including all these fantastic free museums – here are some of the budget basics you need to know when planning and during your trip.

1. Flying to London (or not)

Firstly, let’s look at the most significant initial cost: flights. London has two major airports (Heathrow and Gatwick), one city-centre airport that mainly caters to business travellers (London City), and two further large airports (Stansted and Luton), which mainly serve European and budget flights. There’s also London Southend Airport, which I’ve used once for a package holiday; however, it’s tiny and far away, so I will ignore it here. To be fair, most of these airports aren’t really in London, so how you get into the city centre from these airports (see point 5) is also a cost to factor in.

So, the first thing you’ll want to do is search for cheap flights to all of these airports. Skyscanner is great for this, as you can put in your starting point and then ask it to search for flights to London (any) and see which airport is most cost-effective. You can even search for a whole month, or from all your nearby airports, to find more options.

If you’re coming from Europe, then chances are that budget carriers like Ryanair (mainly Stansted) and easyJet (mainly Luton and Gatwick) will offer the cheapest fares. Just keep in mind that on these no-frills airlines, certain extras do cost more.

Luckily, if you play the game, you can find good deals for your flights to London – just be sure to know the main things that will give you surprise fees at the airport. The first is to understand the difference between carry-on vs personal item , as on airlines such as Ryanair, the latter is free, while the first can get you a hefty surprise charge when it comes to boarding. The second major point that a lot of people fall foul of is not doing their check-in online; to do it at an airport usually means a rather eye-watering fee.

From further afield, such as Australia or the USA, you may want to consider other options. While a weekend in London will mean you will want to fly directly to the city, if you’re instead using London as a starting point to explore Europe’s hidden gems , it may be cheaper to start and end your trip elsewhere on the continent.

I have travelled to Amsterdam or Rome to take long-haul flights in the past because it has been up to £250 cheaper each way. London has high taxes, and direct fares are not always that competitive, so look at flying into a different European city first, saving some bucks for a night or two there and then jumping on a budget flight – or a Eurostar train – to London. Alternatively, look at airlines which offer ‘stopover’ deals or connecting flights, as these can also be cheaper to reach the UK while also allowing you to see another city. Two well-known options include TAP Portugal’s Lisbon stopover and Norway-based Norse, which launched in 2021.

If you’re coming from the United States and want to visit London on a budget, you might also want to sign up for one of the cheap flight email services to be notified when deals or error fares are available. I’ve also written in detail about how to find cheap flights using Skyscanner.

You can also use your flights to save money on accommodation if you book an overnight arrival and late-night departure – essentially giving you two full days. There are loads of places to ditch your luggage for the day if your hotel or apartment doesn’t offer this service. LuggageHero  is pretty cheap and has lots of different storage locations.

2. Book your tickets and activities in advance

When you’re planning your cheap trip to London, you’ll likely have already made a list of all the attractions and activities you want to visit. Of course, many of these will not cost a penny, such as seeing the Changing of the Guard or visiting a free-entry museum; however, the reality is not everything will be so wallet-friendly.

So, to reduce and manage these costs, look for deals and discounts so you can book as many activities as possible in advance. You may assume that booking directly will guarantee the best prices, and while this is true most of the time, it isn’t always the case. There are plenty of coupon and discount websites in the UK, and you can often find some of the capital’s best attractions listed with deals.

Some websites worth checking before booking include Voucher Codes , which shares discount codes to use at checkout, and Groupon, which has both discount codes and deals on certain activities and hotels. For theatre tickets, consider websites such as Love Theatre – but also keep in mind day tickets and the West End lottery mentioned below. If you’re travelling to London by train, you can also usually get decent attraction deals on National Rails’ Discount website when using your train ticket.

You might also want to consider one of the various London Passes. Some bundle 2-7 attractions together for a discount, while others are for specific periods and include transport. I know these are really popular websites to recommend as they pay us a nice commission fee for each sale; however, they are only cost-effective if you really make the most of them.

So, evaluate what attractions you will certainly see in London – many museums and galleries are free – and then work out if one of these passes will actually save you money before buying it. If it will, great, snap it up. If you only plan to visit one or two attractions, it might be better to book separately and find deals on those specific activities.

3. Finding affordable London accommodation

Whatever search engine you use, I promise you one thing: cheap does not usually mean cheerful in London. Whilst there can be some bargains to be found the further out you go, you’ll have slim pickings in central London.

As well as searching on hostel or hotel comparison websites like Trivago , take a look at the websites of budget hotels such as Tunes, Easy or The Z, which usually offer central accommodation at a fairly reasonable price and will guarantee a certain standard of hygiene and facilities. Also, some budget hotels, such as Premier Inn, aren’t listed on comparison websites and should be searched and booked directly.

Alternatively, stay further out and use it to your advantage. London is a super-connected city, and we even have a night metro on weekends now so that you can rent any one of  London’s high-quality short-term rentals , and you won’t miss out on a thing. The bonus of staying in zones 3 and 4 is that not only is accommodation usually cheaper, but food and drinks can also drop dramatically in price, and you’ll get a more ‘local’ experience.

If you plan to stay in London for longer than a few days, you might also want to consider housesitting. This tends to work best for slightly longer stays – sometimes a week or more – as you’ll be looking after someone’s home (and potentially pets or plants) while they go on holiday themselves.

There are a few different platforms which help potential sitters and hosts connect. Many of these platforms require a subscription, so you may want to read a firsthand TrustedHousesitters Review before making the initial payment. However, once you’ve secured your first housesit – especially in a city like London – the savings will quickly add up.

4. Rent a car only when you need one

It might be tempting to rent a car the second you arrive in London, especially if you’re planning to explore other parts of England or road trip Scotland , but if you’re looking to do London on a budget, this isn’t wise. Firstly, you just won’t use your car much when you’re in the city, and secondly, by the time you account for car parking and any congestion charges, those costs will rack up.

As such, it’s better to pick up your car on the day you plan to start your road trip. Alternatively, if you want some wheels for the day to head off to a few nearby places, consider a service like Ubeeqo . This car-sharing website offers easy access via an app to local cars by the hour or day, already including fuel and insurance. They have around 100 parking locations in London, and cars can be rented as far afield as Hertford or Cambridge, so it saves on train fares if you’re staying outside the capital and driving in, or vice versa.

5. Don’t get scammed on your airport transfers and trains

“Express Trains” are not something you will find me on. Often, these services only shave a few minutes off the journey time and come at a hefty premium, and there are much more cost-effective ways to reach London’s centre.

These express trains operate from Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted, so when you’re planning how to reach the capital itself, compare the prices and timings of these services with the regular routes – you’ll be amazed at how much extra you are paying when the difference can be as little as 10 minutes. That said, the express services offer some advanced tickets at a heavily reduced price, so it’s always worth checking to see if you can book one of these.

From London City and Heathrow, you can also use the tube or DLR – Heathrow even has access to the new Elizabeth Line – as these are usually cheaper than rail. National Express coach services from Luton or Stansted can also be cost-effective alternatives depending on the time at which you arrive. The bottom line is there are plenty of options, and depending on where in the city you are staying, the express trains might not be the most direct or cheapest option to arrive in London on a budget

6. Walk, cycle and get contactless

London may seem scarily big when you look at a map – or especially a tube map – but walking around central London actually does not take too long. In fact, walking between some tube stations can be quicker than taking the metro when you add up all the time. So, my tip to you is that when the weather is good, do as much of London on foot as possible.

We also have the  Santander Cycle scheme  – standard and e-bikes – which you can find dotted around the city and access with an app or bank card. While these aren’t as cheap as they once were – standard bikes now cost £1.65 per 30 minutes – they offer a really nice way to get around London. If you’re planning to stay in the city for a while and make heavy use of the scheme, the £20 monthly option may be appealing.

You may have heard of the Oyster card, which is cheaper than buying individual travel tickets for the underground and bus network as it has a capped daily price and cheaper individual fares. Thankfully, this benefit also applies to paying with a contactless credit card, so you don’t need to purchase an Oyster card to enjoy the same price cap. If using a foreign card, you’ll just want to check that your bank will not add an additional exchange fee each time; if so, get the Oyster or find a better travel card such as Wise or Revolut.

7. Use public transport for sightseeing

Public transport in London is pretty decent and a daily occurrence for most of us, so if you are from a country/city that requires a car to get around, forget it – TFL can become your best friend when visiting London on a budget.

While the Tube is great, if a little crowded, heading underground will mean missing some of the best Instagram spots in London . So, make use of the buses and sit on the top deck to get that hop-on, hop-off tourist feeling without spending a fortune.

If you want to experience the River Thames without paying for a river tour, then you’ll want to make use of the Thames Clipper , London’s public ferry service. From as little as £4.80 for a standard single – or £18.90 for a full-day pass – you can take a jaunt along the river and spot some of the city’s most famous attractions on the way.

8. Check out the free attractions

London may be an expensive city, but many of the best attractions actually cost nothing. Learning  how to travel the world for free  is a fine art, and here, you have plenty of it to practice.

Some of London’s best free attractions and museums include the British Museum, St Paul’s Church (not the cathedral), The Tate, The National Portrait Gallery, strolling through Covent Garden, people watching at Borough Market (I know a lot of people recommend this for cheap eats, but in reality, many stalls are quite boutique) and taking in the views from Greenwich. There are also plenty of beautiful parks to enjoy.

Then there are the cultural attractions such as watching the Changing of the Guard, exploring the street art in trendy neighbours such as Shoreditch and heading up to one of the free rooftop viewpoints such as One New Change and the Oxo Tower – they might not be as high as The Shard, but they are a lot cheaper!

9. Skip the Shard and get views for free

The Shard may be the most famous of London’s skyscraper viewing platforms, but it’s not the only option.

My favourite spot is actually found across the river – the bonus is you can see The Shard – in the SkyGarden. Not only will you get some far-reaching vistas across London’s best landmarks, but the space is incredible, with plenty of inside foliage.

You do need to book your visit online in advance  to get free access – the tickets are batch-released every Monday – but that little bit of forward planning will save you the same cash. Alternatively, you can book a table at one of the restaurants, but this turns one of London’s best free attractions into a more pricy experience.

10. Look for free events and gigs in London

London’s cultural scene is all-encompassing, and there is no denying this is one of the best cities in the world for music, arts, theatre and other creative pursuits. Thankfully, that means there are plenty of free – don’t forget to drop some coins in appreciation – events to enjoy throughout the year.

Keep an eye on websites like Secret London, which keep a decent and up-to-date calendar of free events in London so that you can plan ahead – or go last-minute – to an extraordinary event. They cover anything from buskers in Covent Garden and free Royal Opera House performances to church choir performances and Friday night parties at the Tate Modern.

11. Chain restaurants are not the enemy

Yeah, yeah, I’m probably going to get slated for saying this – especially as someone who loves supporting independent businesses – but there are some pretty decent chain restaurants in the UK which can provide affordable deals in decent locations, ideal for a quick, easy and affordable lunch.

Some of my favourites include Pizza Express (they often run 2-for-1 deals), Wahaca for Mexican food, and chain pubs such as Greene King or Fullers for decent-priced British grub and pints. Most of these chains have apps with discount deals. For a slightly more upmarket option with good-quality British dishes, head to one of the Browns Bar and Brasserie’s across the city, the restaurant group where I worked for many years.

If you’re going to spend a while in London, then the Taste Card may be worth considering as after a certain amount of uses, the discounts will more than pay for themselves.

12. Hunt out set menu deals

Set menus, especially on quieter evenings (like Sundays or Mondays) and during lunches, are pretty common in London. These are the times when restaurants are not too busy, and you’ll most likely find the best deals.

If you have a restaurant you really want to visit whilst you are here, call or check the website to find out if they offer a set menu – it will usually save you a fair chunk on the À la carte price.

Do keep in mind that the locations you are looking at will likely change the available deals. For example, in financial districts such as the City of London or Canary Wharf, lunches are usually their prime time with office workers, meaning deals aren’t likely during weekday lunches. On the flip side, in the Theatre District and around Soho or Covent Garden, Prix-Fixe menus are usually early evening to get diners in and out quickly before a show.

13. Picnic on a meal deal

If you want to go super cheap – and generally ‘live like an office local’ – then grab yourself a meal deal. It’s not exactly fancy, but it’s a way to cut your travel costs and do London on a budget.

These simple lunch deals are something of a staple in the UK and are offered in places such as supermarkets and even health retailers such as Boots. Usually costing between £3-£4, you can grab a sandwich, crisps (or fruit and other snacks) and a drink. Take these to one of the beautiful parks in London, and you have a bargain picnic lunch on your hands.

14. Try and get last-minute theatre tickets

West End theatre tickets can run into triple digits, especially for the best seats at the hottest shows. Yet, there are a few ways to save money beyond the voucher websites I mentioned previously. Of course, these options aren’t ideal if you need a specific show on a particular day – for that, it’s best to accept the price and book in advance – but if you have some flexibility, consider the below.

Firstly, there are nearly always last-minute tickets up for grabs directly from the box office. These may be returns or just tickets that have been held back for various reasons. On my last visit back to London, I scored great tickets to Miss Saigon for £20 about an hour before curtain up.

Some other shows also offer a ‘lottery’ a little before the performance starts. For example, the Book of Mormon even runs a lottery every day for £20 tickets if you want to gamble daily 2.5 hours before the performance. This is a great way to enjoy London on a budget and appreciate the incredible cultural scene.

15. Book train fares in advance

This isn’t so much a London on a budget tip, but it will apply if you plan on leaving London to visit other parts of the UK, such as Cornwall’s attractions , Scotland’s capital city of  Edinburgh , or the buzzing city of Manchester .

The fact is rail travel in the UK is very costly. You might think these high train prices mean excellent services, but that also isn’t always the case – sometimes a seat isn’t even guaranteed – and you may find yourself standing for much of the journey. As such, you’ll want to book in advance online.

Not only can you usually score a seat reservation this way, but you can sometimes save up to 50% or more from on-the-day ticket prices.

While individual train companies (we don’t have one rail company) allow booking on their websites,  The Train Line  is an excellent place to start as it will search all operators on that route and show you the best prices. However, they charge a small booking fee, so if you want to save a pound or two more, once you’ve found the deal, go to the operator’s website to try and book directly.

If you plan to travel to some of the most beautiful parts of the country, such as  visiting the Cotswolds , these advance fares will be your biggest money saver. Also, check out National Express, the UK’s long-distance coach company. These buses are nearly always modern, comfy, and good value – providing an additional option to reach places perhaps not served by the trains or at an even lower price.

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• Luxury Island Face-Off: Maldives vs Mauritius, Aruba vs Antigua... or…
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Thanks for sharing so many tips. I agree with the Skygarden trip, the views are great, and the drink bar at the top is also good. There was a DJ playing live music, so my evening was great.

This is very helpful for my hometown friends. They will travel from the states to here in London when the lockdown ends. This is very informative for them on where to go. Thank you very much for the tips!

Nice blog, And impressive information. Thanks for sharing such a nice information about budget of London travel article

Thanks for these amazing tips. London is a very costly city, these tips will help each traveller to plan his trip to London.

These are amazing tips. I traveled to London and did a 3-day sightseeing walking and taking public transport for the most part. While this has become a no-brainer, it took me time to plan my itinerary considering which part of London I would be staying, what I wanted to see and what attractions are best to see when. So I developed the App which plans the itinerary for you based on these above data. Check it out http://londontrip.io Thanks

Really difficult to stay in a budget while traveling but these tips are really amazing and very helpful. overall thanks for this great article.

Exploring London is a part of the trip and London is a city where you will never get bored. I appreciate your ideas, they are good enough to travel to London on budget.

Thanks for sharing such an interesting and really helpful guide. Every visitor before going to London should read it. There are many hotels available in the budget but booking short stay apartments in London is a nice idea to keep your journey in the budget.

Nice blog. Glad that I read this blog. One of the best tips blog on how to have a vacation cheaply. The “meal day” tip is very useful for the people, who come from other countries. Keep helping. All the best,

I agree, hotels can be expensive in London. A cheaper alternative may be booking a holiday home (house, apartment, cottage) within and outside of London.

Getting the train from/to Kings Cross from/to Gatwick is also a super cheap way of travelling between the city and this airport but not many people know this route. There are often tickets on the Thameslink for around £10.

Also accommodation really can be a lot cheaper than you’d think. I stayed at a hostel in zone 1 near Nottinghill for less than £20 per night.

Great tips Dan.

Yep, that’s another great train line to take, though I really dislike Gatwick for some reason :)

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London on a Budget Guide

This post provides 30 tips for those visiting London on a budget, including free museums, inexpensive food, discount theatre tickets, as well as budget itineraries.  

• Save on Tours and Attractions
• Budget Itineraries
• Hotels and Accommodations
• Free Things to Do 
• Eating on a Budget
• Discount Shopping
• Discount Theatre Tickets

DISCOUNTS ON SIGHTSEEING TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS

Sightseeing Tours

Just start with us. All of the tours offered by Free Tours by Foot are pay-what-you-wish and are a great way to visit London on a budget.

We also offer several self-guided walking tours  and self-guided bus tours .  We are now offering GPS-enabled audio tours . 

Be sure to read our post, " Which London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus is Best ", which includes links to get discounts on bus tours.

DISCOUNTS ON POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS

If you are planning on visiting many popular London attractions, such as Westminster Abbey , the Tower of London , and St. Paul's Cathedral , then you might do well to consider a tourist discount pass .

A London tourist attraction discount pass can save you big bucks, depending on the sites you want to visit.

Once you’ve got a rough guide to the attractions you’re going to explore, take a look at their websites to check if your entry could be covered with one of their cards.

The potential savings are 50% off of retail prices.

Take a look at our post on the London Pass and Other Sightseeing and Attraction passes  for more information.

Check out our post on 2 for 1 deals to get the low down on this special programme!

Don't pay for a view from the Shard when there is the free Sky Garden as well as great restaurants with a view and  bars with a view .

BUDGET LONDON ITINERARIES

We've also put together several sample itineraries that are very friendly to your bank account. Each one gives several days' worth of ideas.   Also, check out our monthly things to do posts, which all list free and budget activities for their respective months.

• 1-3 days London itinerary  - general idea that mixes sightseeing, museums, theatre, etc.
• 5 day London museum itinerary  - chock full of free and low-cost museums.
• London under £100 per day - great ideas to stay under the century mark each day.
• Free Things to Do at Night - some itinerary ideas for evenings in London that are free or close to free.
• London off the Beaten Track - not wholly budget travel ideas, but some good options.

Things to include in any itinerary:

• Monument to the Great Fire - a great observation deck for £4/adults and £1.50/child.

SAVE ON HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATIONS

Some of the most expensive hotels in the world are located here in London. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t affordable ones, too!  

Generally, the closer you are to the centre of town, the more expensive the room. So keep an eye on the map when choosing your accommodation.

Hotels aren’t the only option though – London has a wide variety of low-cost, safe, and central hostels to choose from including St. Christophers , Generator Hostels , and YHA .

• Top 30 Cheap London Hotels - a list compiled by TripAdvisor's rating system.
• Here is a list are our favorite budget hotels in the city.
• 24 Hotels under $100 (£65) - a list compiled by Eurocheapo.
• University Halls - an inexpensive way to stay in Central London (especially during summer months)

Other ways to save on accommodation include:

• Using a voucher – Just as above, keeping an eye on voucher sites can often net you a big discount for your hotel stay!
• Calling the hotel directly – If you can find a great deal on travel websites like Expedia, LastMinute or Priceline, it is always worth calling the hotel to let them know. Most will be more than happy to match the offer you found online…all you have to do is ask!
• Checking out Roomorama and  Airbnb – Rooms and flats offered by Londoners themselves, you can sometimes nab yourself a place to stay for as cheap as £25 a night!

FREE MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS 

London is known for its free museums and galleries, and there are so many more free things to do .

It’s possible to get your culture fix without having to pay a single penny, too! No matter what your interests are, there’s a free museum ready for your visit.

For guides on where to go, check out some of our recommendations:

Free museums in London:

• Tate Modern  and other  free London Museums
• Medical Museums (including FREE ones!)
• Military Museums (FREE ones here, too!)

Free attractions and activities in London:

• Free Things to Do in London
• Visit Abbey Road and the Beatles Crosswalk
• Best Free Things to Do in London with Children
• London's Wonderful Parks
• Walk Regents Canal from Little Venice to Camden Town
• Visit Westminster Abbey and St. Paul's Cathedral for Free
• Visit the Tower of London
• Monument to the Great Fire of London
• Free View of London from the "Walkie Talkie"
• Visit Leicester Square
• Free Art Galleries in London
• Free Concerts at St. Martin's in the Fields

EATING IN LONDON ON A BUDGET 

London has a lot of great eateries that are both delicious and budget-friendly.

It's easy to find high-quality cuisine from all around the world, but be sure to try a few  classic British dishes  before leaving London.   You might be interested in a London Tastecard , which offers up to 50% dinners and fine locations.

Why not take an almost free London food tour ?

Here are some of our favorite restaurants, pubs, and food articles:

• Street Food App - street food is delicious, inventive, and inexpensive.  This app is for street food lovers.
• Best Pie in London
• London's Best Riverside Pubs
• Visiting Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
• London's Best Historic Pubs
• Afternoon Tea in London

DISCOUNT SHOPPING IN LONDON

London is renowned for its trendy shops, but oftentimes the most popular brands and the least budget-friendly.

To see a range of what London has to offer, check out our post on the best shopping in the city .

Though not cheap, Harrods, the most famous department store in the UK, is also worth a visit, if only for window shopping.

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Budget London (How to visit London on a budget)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 5, 2023

In this article, discover our top tips to help you make the most of your time exploring the best of London on a budget.

If you are planning a visit to London you will probably already be aware of just how expensive it can be! London is not a cheap city but it doesn’t mean it can’t be explored and enjoyed even if you are on a budget.

I have lived and worked in London and also visited as a tourist many times over the years. This post is a culmination of all the tips and tricks I have learnt in order to save money and explore London on a budget.

Whether you are planning for one day in London on a budget or two, three or four days (or longer) it is possibl e to keep to a budget.

Work out how much you have to spend per day (after accommodation costs), which London attractions you really want to see (as you will find out there are many free museums and galleries ), the best options for getting around , what and where you plan to eat ( markets /restaurants/takeaway/sandwiches)

I have tackled each of those areas below to help you make the most of your trip when on a budget.

I recommend also reading my step by step guide to planning your trip to London which is designed to remove the stress and overwhelm and ensure you make the most of your visit.

UKTP Podcast Episode #57

Where to stay – budget accommodation options in london, using public transport, uber thames clipper boats, museums & galleries, the sky garden, changing of the guard at buckingham palace, markets & food halls, chain restaurants, afternoon tea, budgeting for your london trip, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), budget london – travel tips and tricks.

Episode #57 : Insider tips for exploring the UK on a budget

When visiting London this is the one area I would highly recommend that you push your budget to the maximum you can afford. I have stayed in numerous hotels in London over the years and one thing I have learnt is that you generally get what you pay for.

Stay as close to central London as you can – within Zones 1 and 2 on the Tube map. London is tiring and if you have booked a hotel that is further out not only will you be spending more time on public transport but you will also (possibly) regret it at the end of a long day of sightseeing.

Read up about the different areas and choose one that suits your needs and your budget – you can find out more in my London accommodation guide which highlights the various sights and attractions in each area as well as recommended accommodation choices to suit all budgets.

We find renting an apartment a great budget saving option as you can cook your own meals, prepare a packed lunch and keep the fridge stocked with drinks. (We are big tea drinkers so access to fresh milk for a cuppa is important!)

There are a number of chain hotels in London which also offer good budget accommodation.

Getting around London on a budget

Walking is a great way to see London and it’s free! (Make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes)

The centre of London is fairly compact so you can see a lot of the major sights by planning your itinerary around sights and attractions that are close together and walking between them.

If you prefer to take a guided walking tour rather than doing it independently there a number of free walking tours available (a tip is generally the norm after the tour) some of which are aimed at the backpacker market so do a little research if you decide to take a free tour (I plan to try out a number of these tours when I am next in London so watch out for that post)

Otherwise, I recommend walking tours through Take Walks (not necessarily a budget option but highly recommended) or Get Your Guide . There are lots of themed walking tours in operation to suit every budget.

The best way to save money on public transport in London is to purchase an Oyster Card .

The card is a credit card-sized payment method for public transport in London and provides access to London’s Underground (the Tube), bus network, trams, Docklands Light Railway, London Overground trains and most National Rail services at a reduced rate.

The card also entitles you to a 10% discount on most Thames Clipper river bus services and a 25% discount on the Emirates Air Line.

You can top up your Oyster Card at any Tube Station as well as in a number of shops and information centres in London.

I recommend purchasing a visitor Oyster Card before you arrive so you don’t have the hassle of arriving at the airport after a long flight and having to buy one then.

To save money on the Tube, DLR, London Overground services and National Rail services avoid travelling at peak times (Monday to Friday 06.30 – 09.30 & 16.00 – 19.00) At these times peak fares apply.

Buses and trams charge a flat fee of £1.50 regardless of the time of day you travel.

Good to know – Bus tours are a popular way to see the city but if you are on a budget I recommend catching the number 11 bus from Liverpool Street Station.

The route takes you through the City of London and past St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Read more in my complete guide to getting around London by public transport.

Another option ( in my opinion for those who enjoy life on the edge!) is to cycle around London.

So-called ‘Boris Bikes’ the Santander Cycles can be hired for £2 for 24 hours (if you use the bike for less than 30 minutes there is no additional charge but after that time you pay £2 every 30 minutes – this is on top of the £2 for the 24 hour access)

You can read more about the Santander Bike scheme here.

Good to know – look out for the maps giving your location and directions to sights and attractions (including the walking distance)

Taking a river cruise along the Thames is popular with visitors to London but it’s not exactly a budget-friendly option.

To save money I recommend jumping on a Thames Clipper River Boat service! Use your Oyster Card for a 10% discount.

My favourite route is from the London Eye (Waterloo) pier to Greenwich Pier. (There is so much to see and do in Greenwich so don’t miss it off your London bucket list )

London sightseeing on a budget

There is so much to do and see in London it can be difficult to know where to start when planning an itinerary.

The good news if you are on a budget is that there are lots of free things to do in London. This includes some of arguably the best museums and art galleries in the world – all for free!

Many (though not all) of London’s museums and art galleries are free including the British Museum, Natural History Museum, National Gallery, Imperial War Museum, Science Museum Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tate Modern and Tate Britain.

If you aren’t sure which of the museums to include in your itinerary why not take a virtual tour to get a flavour of what they each offer?

Most museums open around 10 am and close at 5/6 pm. Late night opening hours are in operation for a number of the museums (Friday night is a popular option) but check with the relevant museum before making plans.

If the museum you want to visit is not free (The Churchill War Rooms for example) check if entry is included in the London Pass. This can be a cost-effective way to see those attractions, museums and sights that have an entry fee.

The London Pass also includes fast track entry to many places which I think is always worth it! While we Brits are great at queuing it doesn’t mean we like to waste precious holiday time practising our skills!

A free bus tour is another perk of the London Pass – definitely worth weighing up the benefits if you have a lot you want to see in London.

You can find out more about what is included in the London Pass on my London Bucket List post or look at pricing options here plus I have an entire article dedicated to reviewing the London Pass!

London has some beautiful parks spread throughout the city. Great places for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or to take a break from the hectic nature of London.

Of course the parks are free too which makes them a perfect destination if you are visiting London on a budget.

Kensington Gardens is a favourite for fans of the late Princess Diana. Here you can find the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground and fountain as well as the bronze statue of Peter Pan.

Other parks I recommend visiting in central London include St James’s Park in Westminster, Hyde Park and Green Park.

For great views over London head to Primrose Hill on the north side of Regent’s Park.

Taking in a show while in London is an absolute must for theatre lovers. I have seen a few including Wicked and The Lion King in London’s West End and highly recommend booking a show!

However, the tickets can be pretty expensive. I do recommend booking tickets in advance online if you have a particular show you really want to see or are bothered about your seating options.

Otherwise, head to the TKTS booth in Leicester Square where you can purchase half-price and discounted theatre tickets.

The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden and is located at 20 Fenchurch Street in the so-called “Walkie Talkie” building.

Access to the garden is free of charge (yay!) but you must book tickets. Tickets are released up to 3 weeks before and are only valid on the date and time stated.

We booked tickets in December 2019 for our visit in January 2020 and once I had the tickets confirmed I planned our entire itinerary for that around the Sky Garden.

Expect a queue and to go through security but once you are on the 38th floor (after a rapid ride in the lift) you have the freedom to explore the Sky Garden and enjoy the views of London.

Hopefully, you will get better weather than the day we were there but do book and go – it is free after all!

Another free (and very British) tradition to experience in London is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

The ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays every month except June and July when it is daily. The changing of the guard occurs at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks so you have 3 opportunities to observe this centuries-old tradition.

Food and drink on a budget

Food and drink costs can really mount on holiday and I know we are always looking at ways to save money in this area.

Booking a hotel with breakfast included or an apartment where you can make your own meals is one way to save.

If you are out and about in London these are the tips I have picked up over the years to reduce meal costs.

London has some great street food and many of the markets offer a variety of options to suit everyone’s tastes.

One of the great things about London is the sheer variety of food on offer with cuisines options from around the globe.

Head to Borough Market the oldest and probably the best foodie market in London. There are restaurants, cafes and pubs as well as market stalls to peruse – a real foodies heaven!

Located in Southwark (nearest Tube stations are London Bridge, Borough and Southwark) the market is open Monday – Thursday 10 am – 5 pm (limited market on a Monday and Tuesday though) Friday 10 am – 6 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm. Go early it’s a popular place!

Many of the great British supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencers and the upmarket Waitrose have smaller shops in London.

These ‘Express’ or ‘Food Only’ versions of their stores offer “Meal Deals” These generally consist of a sandwich, drink and packet of crisps from a fairly large selection.

Boots (a large health and beauty retailer) also offers their version too.

We are big fans of Marks & Spencer food and love putting a picnic together to take with us on a day out on the train or popping in for a “Meal Deal” for our lunch.

Another great option for sandwiches is Pret a Manger. Offering a wide variety of baguettes, wraps, salads, soups as well as sandwiches they are a popular choice.

There are some excellent chain restaurants in London that are budget-friendly.

We love Nandos (Chicken) but Wagamama (Japanese), Flat Iron (steak), Pho (Vietnamese) Yo Sushi!, Masala Zone (Indian), Giraffe (World), Pizza Express are all worth checking out if you are on a budget.

Having an afternoon tea is another bucket list experience I am often asked about. And wow does London have some absolutely fabulous afternoon teas!

There are also themed teas available (often based on theatre productions or films based in London ) which are pretty spectacular!

Unfortunately, most of them come with a hefty price tag too! If you want an afternoon tea for less than £20 – £30 a head it is best to forget the Ritz, Fortnum & Mason or The Shard.

Try The Wolseley in St James’s which serves one of London’s best budget afternoon teas or the Bluebird in Chelsea for their delicious version of the traditional afternoon tea.

Hopefully, these budget tips make visiting London on the cheap a slightly more achievable target for you! Even if you are not on a tight budget it is always good to know how to save money when you visit London.

If you are looking for more ideas to plan your visit to London or (further afield in the United Kingdom) my travel planning guides are a great place to start.

• Best London hotels for families (luxury, mid-range & budget options)
• Best apartments & hotels in Westminster and St James’s London
• The 9 Regions of England (An essential guide for itinerary planning)
• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s manin trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• Beatles fan? Read our guide to the Beatles in London
• Visiting in winter? 21 Festive things to do in London in December

—> Click here for all the practical information and resources you need to help you plan your UK vacation

Adventures of Alice

London on a Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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London, well let’s be honest, Europe in general is not high on the list of places that spring to mind when you think of budget-friendly. But with a little knowledge of London’s hidden gems and a sprinkle of creativity, there is always a way you can stretch the pounds and visit London on a budget – even though the city is notorious for draining a bank account before you can blink. 

As a local and someone who’s had a lot of experience travelling in London, I’m happy to report that I’ve done all the hard work for you. I’ve compiled all my knowledge into this handy article, so you don’t make the expensive mistakes that I did!

Is London expensive to visit?

Long story short, yes, it is expensive. However, there are certainly ways that you can see incredible things, eat incredible food and experience the atmosphere of such a busy city all whilst staying within a budget that is comfortable to you.

Even if you don’t really know what to expect from London, you can spend a few minutes researching and usually find something cheap and quirky to do on any day of the week. There really are so many wonderful things to do in London on a budget! 

Where to stay in London on a budget 

Flight costs aside, accommodation always costs a pretty penny. Personally, as a budget queen, I much prefer to spend my money on experiences rather than a swanky hotel. There is a wide range of cheap accommodation in London. Some places are really lovely and offer great amenities, a social atmosphere and a perfect location. On the flip side, some should be avoided at all costs. 

Here are my top affordable accommodation suggestions if you’re visiting London on a budget:

• Oliver Plaza Hote l – This super affordable 4* hotel is located in the cosmopolitan area of Earl’s Court. It has good public transport links, modern furnishings, and a delicious continental breakfast served in the morning. You’ll also find shops and restaurants within a few minutes walk.
• Point A Hotel London Kings Cross – This 3* hotel is perfect for someone visiting London on a budget. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Kings Cross, so ideal for those travelling around London. It also features compact and comfortable rooms, a 24-hour reception, and contemporary lobby area. Continental breakfast is served every morning.
• YHA London Earl’s Court – Another great find on Earl’s Court, this budget hotel / hostel offers rooms for up to 6 people – perfect if you’re traveling in a group. You’ll find exceptionally friendly staff, private and shared rooms, a laundry and luggage service, and continental breakfast served in the morning.
• St Christopher’s Inn Village – I know I don’t typically recommend hostels, but if you’re visiting London on a budget, this is a great find. Offering the UK’s first capsule rooms, you can choose between private and shared rooms and bathrooms. Simply decorated, but comfortable, you’ll be a short walk from public transport, and have access to a range of facilities including a roof terrace, 24-hour reception, live music and karaoke nights. 

Other accommodation options: 

As well as this, you can always check Hotwire. This site allows you to essentially book a room based on your specific preferences before you see the name of the hotel. They offer a cheaper rate because there is no name bias. 

If you want to be in the city without being in the city or would love a whole house with comfy, cosy vibes an Airbnb or self-catering apartments will be your best bet. I would suggest looking in Hampstead or North London as they are a bit quieter but very luxe.

Where to eat in London on a budget

Being a bustling metropolis, London has no shortage of cuisines to tuck into. Craving a delicious Samosa or butter chicken? Sorted. Want a Taiwanese Taro ball that popped up on your Tiktok? Too easy. Fancy going on a croissant crawl through North London? Get your shoes on. Thankfully, there are price points to suit every budget as well. 

Let’s cover some things that are worth breaking the budget for. 

• A full English breakfast . Perfect after a heavy night out to soak up some of the pints. 
• Pie, mash and beer . Perfect to warm up on a rainy day or matched with a football game. 
• A roast with Yorkshire puds . A true Sunday ritual. The crispy potatoes drowning in thick gravy just hit different. I suggest pre-booking a table as most pubs get pretty rammed for Sunday lunch.
• Vegan dark chocolate cookie. You can find this at The Cinnamon Tree bakery in Borough Markets. It’s potentially the best cookie I have had in my life. 
• A salt beef bagel from Beigel bake . If you are there on a weekend expect to wait in line.  
• A proper afternoon tea . A glass of champagne is optional. 

Top tips for eating in London on a budget

For Breakfast – One of my favourite budget hacks that I still implement today is staying in accommodation that offers breakfast. Even if it’s continental and nothing fancy I find that there are still enough options to make up some snacks to get you through a morning of exploring. Don’t feel guilty about taking an extra apple or croissant as you are technically paying for it as part of the room price. 

For Lunch – Tesco express and Sainsbury, both supermarkets, do meal deals – sandwich, chips and drink for under £7. Pret and costa are also a great option for a grab-n-go lunch offering a good selection of wraps, salads and some plant based options. Some restaurants in the city centre will do lunch hour specials offering a smaller menu at a discounted rate. You can expect a more corporate crowd here.

Markets, food vendors down by Southbank and the area immediately surrounding tourist attractions will always be the most expensive options. At restaurants like Maddisons opposite St Pauls or Sky Garden you definitely pay for the view. Soho, Mayfair and Chelsea are also not for those looking to budget travel in London or have already spent all their £ on too many cocktails. 

For Dinner – Dinner is almost always the most expensive meal of the day. I personally suggest the pizza at Franco Manca, they have a large number of locations dotted around London. The tacos at Taco Padre are delicious and are close to London Bridge, right near popular attractions. Chinatown is always a good choice for affordable food in London and perfect for sharing with groups.

Making the most of happy hour

London does not play when it comes to liking pints. You can find rooftop bars with £30 cocktails, underground hidden jazz bars stowed behind a toilet door, sticky-floored pubs where the average age is 60+ and everything in between. 

Here are some of the better places to drink in London , perfect for a budget traveller:

• Simmons bars . £2.50 basics. Various locations 
• Barrio . £3.00 tequila shots. Various locations 
• Wetherspoons . £5.00 pint (don’t quote me). Various locations
• Tequila mockingbird . £20 prosecco. Various locations 
• Be at one . 2-for-1 cocktails. Various locations 
• Salsa! . £3 cider. Right by Tottenham Court Road station 

Top Tip : Bars that have an unexpectedly long daily happy hour, 12-8 or so, should probably be avoided. Most of the time, the drinks are weak AF and you just end up filling up on liquid without the buzz. These can usually be found downstairs from office buildings and are mostly empty (with valid reason). 

Getting around London on a budget

London is really lucky to have an easy-to-navigate, affordable (in comparison to taxis) and efficient public transport system. It looks terrifying at first glance but once you get the hang of it which only takes a couple of trips you will be zipping about the city like a local and saving big bucks.

The underground has 11 lines, 272 stations and with a few changes, can take you on a 400 km journey if that is your idea of fun. There is no need to get a transport card (Oyster) because you can use contactless to pay for your journeys. 

The cap for a day from zone 1-3 is £9.60 which is where the majority of tourist attractions are located. Most lines run from 5am – 1am but some also run 24 hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Top Tip: When using an escalator, stand on the right and walk on the left, locals are quite…passionate about everyone following that rule.  

The bus is another good option if you’re visiting London on a budget. It does have its quirks such as taking longer and being more of a jarring stop-start journey, but if you have the time to spare or need to watch your spending, the bus is the way to go. 

It displays all of the stops so you won’t accidentally miss yours but if you are unsure, check with the driver when you tap on. The price for a one-hour journey is £1.65! Make sure to download Citymapper for accurate information on what line/s to catch. 

Top Tip : TFL has a bus route that they label ‘Classic London’, route 139. The journey is very pretty and covers a lot of the hotspots, saving you a massive £37 instead of a regular hop-on hop-off tour bus.

By far the preferred transport method for everyone in the city (especially if you’re visiting London on a budget) is by foot. Pack some high-quality, comfy shoes and be sure to check your step counter at the end of the day for an instant shot of dopamine

Top Tip : If you are following Google Maps, pop a headphone in and hide your phone away, to prevent pickpockets.  

Things to do in London on a budget

Thankfully, there are lots of things to do in London on a budget. You can spend years (literally) bopping around the city finding obscure and beautiful things to see – and quite a few of them are free! Plus, if you have more time in London, day trips are also super affordable. You could visit the stunning Seven Sisters , or cities like Cambridge , or Bath .

Before your trip, I would suggest you take a look at Eventbrite , Timeout and the Londonist to see what events/exhibits are on in case there is anything you want to get tickets to. Plus, one absolute life changer for me has been TodayTix . If you are a theatre buff, you need to download the app before your trip, it offers on-the-day discounts for productions to get butts on seats.

Anyhow, here are some of the top things to do in London on a budget.

• The British Museum – without a doubt one of the best museums in London
• National Portrait Gallery – a fantastic day out for art lovers
• Natural History Museum – great museum inside a beautiful building
• Tate Modern – beautiful art gallery near Millennium Bridge. One of the upper decks has a gorgeous viewpoint over the city
• St. Dunstan’s in the East – a gorgeous abandoned church turned photographer’s paradise
• Sky Garden – one of the best viewpoints in London and the highest city garden

Under £20 

• Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park – £18 per adult
• Ballie Ballerson – From £5 to £17.50 depending on the day of the week – a retro cocktail bar with a ball pit!
• Covent Garden Comedy Club – Between £18 – £20 per ticket, but great if you love a laugh!
• Postal Museum and Rail Mail – £17 per adult
• Tower of London – £17 per adult
• Westminster Abbey – £19 per adult

Less budget friendly 

• Buckingham Palace – While the tour inside costs a bit, you can watch the changing of the guard for free. Exclusive guided tours can be upwards of £90 per person!
• The London Eye – £25 and up, but offers spectacular views over the city.

To book tickets for attractions in London, click here .

Daily spend expectation

Okay, it’s the moment of truth. How much can you expect to spend if you’re visiting London on a budget? 

During the shoulder or slow season, you can expect to spend between £100 – £175 daily including accommodation. If you are visiting London in the peak season you can expect to spend between £150 – £250 daily including accommodation. 

Both of these options are, of course, dependent on activities, how many cheeky cocktails you have in an evening, and whether you eat at restaurants for every meal. 

So, can you visit London on a budget?

London is such a dream city for a lot of travellers, thanks to years of being used in major movies. It’s a shame that a lot of people avoid it out of fear of how expensive it appears. 

But, if you keep an eye out for happy hours, take snacks from the breakfast buffet and have dinner outside of the tourist hotspots, walk or take the bus, and stay in budget accommodation, you can experience the best that London has to offer for about £150 a day. 

So, if you thought there weren’t things to do in London on a budget, I hope you’re feeling very pleasantly surprised!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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The Cost of Travel in London: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

How has it taken me so long to get around to writing a budget breakdown for London?

London is everything to me.

I was born in this incredible city and spent the first 23 years of my life exploring everything it has to offer. Even now, over a decade after leaving to travel the world, I consider London home and return every single year to spend my summers strolling its streets. I spent several weeks there last summer, and have already booked my tickets for this year’s trip!

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s impossible to run out of things to do and see in this magnificent place. A list of things to do would stretch into the hundreds, if not the thousands; my top restaurant recommendations would require months to visit them all. You could spend a week in London doing nothing but visiting world-class museums and leave with just as many left on your to-do list. And that’s before I even dive into the countless day trips that are up for grabs around the U.K.

And all of this wonder? Yeah, it won’t be a surprise to hear that it comes at a steep price.

London is expensive, but there are plenty of ways to keep your budget to a minimum — when I returned to the city after backpacking in Southeast Asia, I was still able to keep my costs low by staying in hostels and eating the delicious street food. But if you’re all about that luxury life? London is unlike anywhere else in the world, with so many world-class hotels and restaurants to dip into.

Today, I’m going to be sharing exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to London. Prices are in USD and GBP.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in London

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer. And when you see the price of some of the accommodation in London, you might just be able to find said time!

Couchsurfing  exists in the UK– and, of course, London — and lets you stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight and you don’t mind roughing it, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is another option. This is where you take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and when you go there.

If you do have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting — they usually have hundreds of housesits available for London at any one time, so it’s well-worth having a look to see if any coincide with your travel dates.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation: you just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available.

The Cost of Accommodation in London

The best hostel in London: YHA London Oxford Street (dorms $45/£35 a night, private rooms $141/£110 )

Want to visit London on a budget and still stay in the heart of the action? Well, you can’t get much more central than right beside the city’s premier shopping street, and YHA London Oxford Street lets you stay there for as little as $45/£35 a night! That’s assuming you’re happy to stay in a dorm, of course, but even if you aren’t, private rooms are still very reasonably priced. Despite the affordability, you still get a quiet building, clean rooms, individual lights and power sockets beside each dorm bed, and the option of an inexpensive breakfast each morning. You can also buy drinks and light meals onsite, but of course there are about a thousand eating and drinking options nearby as well! Everything is within walking distance or a short tube ride away, so if all you’re really looking for is a cheap, clean place to lay your head in central London, this is definitely the place to do it.

The best budget hotel in London: The Lilac Door ( $167/£130 a night)

The Lilac Door is an adorable, family-run bed and breakfast in Dulwich Hill that’s an affordable yet charming place to stay in London. The rooms are clean and comfortable, but as always with a B&B, it’s the hosts that make or break it. In this case, they definitely make it: not only were they super warm and welcoming, but the breakfasts I had there were exceptional. They had no problem catering for dietary requirements like gluten-free or vegetarianism, but if you’re not limited in what you can eat, you have so many options, from a full English to a huge spread of croissants, yoghurts, and omelettes. There’s plenty to see and do nearby, including the well-known Dulwich Picture Gallery and Crystal Palace Park, while a bus or overland train gets you into the centre of the city in about 40 minutes.

The best mid-range hotel in London: Blackbird ( $277/£216 a night)

It’s no surprise that you’ll need to up your budget a bit if you want to stay closer to the heart of London: with that in mind, Blackbird offers impressive value. Honestly, I was surprised to find out that it’s actually a pub first and accommodation second: it’s a very upscale version of the classic “pub with rooms” that you find all over the UK. The rooms are clean and spacious for the area, with all the amenities you need for a few days in the city. Food (and drinks) at the pub downstairs are definitely a step above traditional pub fare, and with breakfast included, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to sample it! In terms of getting around, you’re in a great location: Kensington Palace and Hyde Park are a lovely half-hour stroll away, and the hotel is basically over the road from Earls Court station, with regular tubes that can whisk you directly to Covent Garden in 20 minutes or Heathrow airport in 40 minutes.

The best high-end hotel in London: Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection ( $555/£432 a night)

Ever since I stayed in one of Marriot’s amazing Autograph Collection hotels in Seoul last year, I’ve been keeping an eye out for the chance to do it again. The stylish design, exceptional staff, and attention to detail was unlike anything I’d experienced before, and Bankside Hotel brings all of that and more to London’s bustling South Bank. You couldn’t ask for a better location, less than a five minute stroll from the Tate Modern and the Thames, and an easy walk or short cab or tube ride to everything you’ll want to see in central London. As you’d expect, the rooms are super-quiet and the amenities are top-notch, from remote-control blackout blinds to marble bathrooms, and the artwork around the hotel is quirky without being tacky: not an easy balance. In short, if you’re happy to spend a bit extra to make your stay in London especially memorable and comfortable, Bankside is the place to do it!

The Cost of Transportation in London 

Your first travel experience from London is going to depend a hell of a lot on which airport you choose to land at. Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, or even London City: all are potential options, but only London City is anywhere close to the centre of the action. It’s a small airport that mostly services flights to nearby European countries, so you’ll likely be flying into somewhere else, which means a solid hour of public transport to get into central London.

Yeah, it’s a pain in the ass.

Other than London City, Heathrow is the only London airport that’s serviced by the Underground, which means it costs as little as $7.20/£5.60 to get into the central city. It takes about an hour, though: if you want a faster journey, the Heathrow Express zips between the airport and Paddington station in 15 minutes, and costs $26/£20 if you book in advance .

All the other airports are further out and require a bus and/or overland train journey into central London. Gatwick has an express train service that takes about half an hour and costs $30/£22.90 . If you’re traveling at an off-peak time and don’t mind if your journey takes a bit longer, just take a non-express service from Gatwick instead; it’s under half the price.

Stansted also has an express service, which takes about an hour and costs $30/£23 . Cheap advance fares are sometimes available that cost as little as $13/£9.90 , but there are only a limited number available and they sell out quickly. Check the website just in case, though! Luton doesn’t have a direct train service, so you’re looking at a fairly painful 90 minute bus journey there, for $17/£13 .

Once you’re in London, though, moving between attractions is a breeze. You’ll often be able to walk from one to the next, but if not, there’s a diverse range of public transport options available. Buses, underground and overground trains, light rail, trams, and even boats criss-cross the city, and most of them are integrated into a single payment system.

Prices vary depending on the type of transport and how far you’re going, but expect to pay $2.25/£1.75 for a bus ride (with free transfers for an hour) and $3.50/£2.70 for a single tube ride in zone one. Daily fare caps apply, so you won’t pay more than $11/£8.50 per day for journeys in zone one and two.

Note that those prices and caps apply only if you’re using a contactless card: either a credit or debit card, Apple or Google Pay on your phone, or an Oyster card that you can buy and top up at ticket machines and counters at major stations. Cash tickets can be noticeably more expensive.

The London Overground is a more recent addition, using existing railway lines to cover a wide area that generally wasn’t well served by underground routes. There’s also the Docklands Light Railway, or DLR, an innovative driverless option that starts at Bank station and heads out through the old London dock area on a few different routes towards Greenwich, London City Airport, and elsewhere.

When you tire of the railway and bus system, hop on a boat instead. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is a unique way to skip the (often) chaotic London transportation scene and enjoy the beauty of the Thames River. It’s rarely the fastest way to get around, but it’s definitely the most scenic, and a lot cheaper than paying for a Thames cruise. The river is split into three fare zones: Oyster/contactless cards are accepted and kids under five ride free. An adult single zone fare starts at $8/£6.20 .

As a rule, you’ll likely end up taking the tube most of the time, a bus for shorter trips or where the tube doesn’t run to, and then the occasional overground train, tram, or boat. Unless you’re heading to Greenwich or flying in or out of London Airport, you probably won’t take the DLR much or at all.

If you’d prefer to power your own explorations, there are many dockless bike share systems in London as well. The biggest is Santander , which has over 12,000 bikes around inner London and a handy $4/£3 day pass option that includes unlimited rides of up to half an hour each.

The Cost of Food in London

Yeah, I’ll point directly at the elephant in the room right now: English food has a terrible reputation.

Jellied eels, spotted dick, and toad in the hole are often called out by visitors to my homeland, with many still believing the British cuisine of the pre-millennium is still in favour. That couldn’t be any less true today!

London is one of the greatest cities in the world for eating these days, and you’re going to have so many delicious meals while you’re in town.

Let’s start with the breakfasts. Even if you’ve never come across any other British food before, you’ve probably heard of the full English: a breakfast smorgasbord of bacon, eggs, potatoes, sausages, mushrooms, baked beans, toast, and grilled tomatoes is a well-known way of setting yourself up for the day. It’s probably also a good way of setting yourself up for a heart attack if you have it all the time, but fortunately continental options of cereal, yoghurt, and fruit are commonplace, along with avocado toast and other lighter fare.

If breakfast isn’t included in your room rate, expect to pay around $15.50-19.50/£12-15 for a full English at a good cafe, and $8-11.50/£6-9 for a continental option. You might get tea or coffee with that, but if not, it’ll be around $2/£1.50 for a cup of milky tea, $2.50/£2 for a basic brewed coffee, and $4/£3 for a good latte or flat white. Avocado toast normally runs about $13-15.50/£10-12 .

Lunch is usually a relatively light meal, and you’ve got endless options. It’s pretty much impossible to walk more than a block in central London without seeing somewhere selling sandwiches, from the infamous supermarket “meal deals” of a sandwich or wrap plus a drink and crisps/chips, through chain sandwich stores like Pret a Manger with a wider range and somewhat higher quality, to specialist delicatessens. Fillings like egg mayo or cheese and pickle are common, but there’s a huge variety. Expect to pay around $5.25/£4 for a supermarket meal deal, and $4.50-7.75/£3.50-6 for a wrap or sandwich elsewhere.

If you’re after something heartier (and still have room left after that full English breakfast), many pubs and restaurants have weekday lunchtime specials. Keep an eye out for signboards as you walk around: these specials typically change regularly, but can offer a significant saving over having something similar for dinner. I recently paid $24/£18.50 for ham, eggs, and chips plus a pint of cider at a pub in inner London, which is about what it would have cost without the drink later in the day.

One of my favourite London activities is afternoon tea and I’ve been fortunate to have sampled over a dozen of the city’s offerings in my lifetime! It’s a fantastic tea-based tradition in this country; a multi-hour experience, during which you’ll sample sandwiches, scones, cakes, pastries, cocktails, and tea. Perfect for a special occasion! There are so many different options available to suit a range of budgets. My personal favourite options are:

• For a luxury afternoon tea: The Lanesborough afternoon tea ( £80 /$100). A high-end option in one of London’s fanciest hotels. The staff were amazing and their cakes are some of the best I’ve had.
• For a wow-factor afternoon tea: Peter Pan-themed afternoon tea at the Shard ( £70 /$88). You’ll have the best views in London at this one. I loved sitting beside the window and gazing out across the city.
• For a fun, themed afternoon tea: Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea at the Sanderson ( £65 /$82). This is a London classic, with Alice in Wonderland-themed treats. I’ve been to this one three times as it makes for a great place for first-time visitors to the city!
• For a budget afternoon tea: Tapas-themed afternoon tea at Map Maison ( £28 /$35). I really enjoyed this afternoon tea in East London and thought it offered amazing value for money. It’s Spanish-themed, so expect lots of delicious jamon .

If you’re near a pub at lunchtime on a Sunday, be sure to stop in for a Sunday roast. Most pubs that serve food offer it, and it’s a real British institution. There’s usually a choice of two or three meat-based options and a vegetarian/vegan version, along with roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding that you absolutely have to try at least once. Expect to pay $18-23.50/£14-18 for it.

You’ll have even more choice about what to eat and drink for dinner than at lunchtime, but to give just a few examples:

• Fish and chips: $10-18.75/£8-15
• Steak and chips: $18.75-37.50+/£15-30+
• Indian curry: $15-25/£12-20
• Pizza: $12.50-22.50/£10-18
• Glass of house wine at a pub: $6.25-10/£5-8
• Cocktails at a fancy bar: $15-22.50+/£12-18+

Those prices really can vary a lot, though, based on which part of the city you’re eating in and how fancy the establishment is. London caters for all budgets!

After you’ve eaten your way through the city it’s ok to step outside the traditional English cuisine to taste the many flavours from all over the world. With so many people from all over the world choosing to make London their home, it’s hardly surprising that their country’s cuisine also makes an appearance. If you’re craving almost any type of food at all, chances are there’s a restaurant that serves it.

The Cost of Activities, Tours, and Entrance Fees in London

Where to even begin? There’s so much to do in London that I could write an entire article for each and every activity.

We’ll start things off with the big hitters.

When it comes to paid activities within the city, the London Eye is one of my favourites.

I’ve been for a ride on this giant observation wheel three times now — once in the morning, once at sunset, and once in the evening — and it’s one of my favourite places to take friends who are new to the city. It’s a great first destination in London, in my opinion, as it gives you a sense of the size of the city and where the attractions are in relation to each other. I recommend going at sunset, as at this time, you’ll still be able to make out the monuments but also get to watch the city start to light up. Prices come in at £32 for a standard ride or £51 to skip the line and enjoy a glass of champagne onboard . As somebody who has spent over an hour queueing to board the Eye, I recommend the latter if you can afford the extra cash.

The Tower of London is another iconic location that you have to check out. You can catch a glimpse of the famous Crown Jewels while you’re there, of course, but that really is just the beginning: after all, there’s over a thousand years of history inside those stone walls!

Churches and museums grace nearly every corner, enlightening history fanatics of the centuries old religious presence and modern art spirit that lives there. Most of the to-dos are best seen by simply walking through them. Big Ben, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge are all a sight to be seen and an opportunity to capture that ‘London pic’.

Piccadilly Circus is London’s version of Times Square. It’s busy, brightly lit and full of people. But most importantly, it’s free. Yes, people watching at the circus is totally free of charge and totally worth it. For all you night owls, take notes. Pubs, Broadway productions, restaurants and clubs will keep you happily vibing until the wee hours of the morning if you so choose. 

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens is a beautiful way to see a different side of London. Picnics, bike paths, swans, blooming gardens and a memorial walk pathed with history are all features of this must-do. There are no costs associated with this, but there are vendors scattered around eager to serve you a coffee or lunch to accompany you on your stroll. 

And day trips?

After you’ve wandered every museum, toured every church, and sat in every pub (which means you’ve spent 50 years in London!), it’s time to explore more of the U.K.

Oxford and Oxford and Cambridge offer a portal back in time with winding cobblestone roads, thousand-year-old churches, and universities that hold both clout and tradition. Stonehenge is a mystery worth digging into during your time here. Just short of a three-hour drive from London, you will find a pile of rocks strategically placed. By whom? No one knows. Day trip tours start at $89/£69 .

The Cost of Travel Insurance in London

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to London. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel in London?

Travelling on a mid-range budget like I was, my costs were as follows:

Accommodation:  $195/ £152 per day between two people ( $97.50/£76 each) Transportation:  $9/ £ 7 per day Food:  $57 /£44.50 per day Activities:  $48 /£37.50 per day

Total amount spent per day: $211.50/£165

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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44 comments.

We spent a couple of weeks pre-Christmas in Brixton two years ago (in a very cute Airbnb also!) and I fell in love with it. The first night our host sent us to Brixton Market for dinner, and we ate ALL THE DUMPLINGS at Mama Lan’s and after that we pretty much loved being in that neighbourhood. I wish we could afford to live in Brixton full-time – you and Dave don’t fancy going halfsies on a house for us all to share, do you?!

Um, yes, we absolutely do! :-D

I was wondering why on earth you were having conversations about candy, sidewalks, friends, pants, restrooms, drapes, parking lots , and jelly. Seemed like odd/trivial topics of conversation! ….Until I realized that those are all Americanisms and, being American, I didn’t even realize that there could be a second meaning to that sentence :D

Hahahaha! That made me laugh so hard.

I just ate my oatmeal breakfast, but after reading this article and looking at your photos I think I need to eat something that contains fat. I should have stopped reading after a title, cause I knew this would happen to me.

Hahaha! I should have added a warning to the top of the post as well ;-)

I lived in London for two years and didn’t venture to Brixton once. Now I’m kicking myself! But I’m a north of the river girl and you can definitely eat your way around Archway…

It’s funny how England has a reputation for having terrible food, but one of my favourite things to do there these days is eat!

Aww what a lovely story! I should have timed reading this better though – it’s 5pm and I’m starving now ha ha! A friend of mine used to live in Brixton but I haven’t been for years – sounds like there’s some amazing places for food – I’m gonna have to pay it a visit next time in in the city I think…

Definitely do so, Keri! Brixton Village is so incredible for eating :-)

Brixton is totally going on my travel list! Also, just looking at those photos makes me hungry (and I have just finished dinner…)

Then my work is done! :-) Glad you enjoyed the post!

Lauren!! You absolutely have to go to Ms. cupcake – its a vegan bakery…..everything they make is to die for! X

Ah, amazing! Will add it to my list :-D

I have only been to London once and never made it to Brixton. However I did spend a day at Camden Market and had an amazing time there.

I love Camden Market! Lots of fun and great for people watching :-)

I got so hungry from reading this post and looking at pics :)

It took me longer than usual to write it because I kept having to head out to grab some food!

My God, Lauren – these photos! Arghghghgh, it’s only 9:20am here and I’m now ridiculously hungry!

I’ve always wanted to try out the mad-hatter’s afternoon tea. Have seen loads of my friends go and then paste the photos all over Facebook. Definitely one to add to the list for when I’m back home next!

Brixton sounds like a food-lover’s dream come true. I love the idea of having a ‘local’ currency, too, in order to help support local businesses. Brilliant.

Haha, sorry! I’ll be writing a post about the mad-hatter’s tea party next week and sharing lots of photos :-)

I live here!! And it’s AWESOME! I love all the places you mention. Would also recommend Spanish… Brindisa, Gremio de Brixton, Boqueria… Or for slightly smarter meals go for Salon or Naughty Piglets. If you want cocktails there’s Shrub and Shutter (although that’s gotten more expensive recently) or the Beast of Brixton. Gremio does good cocktails too. I love the food in Brixton – I’m a triathlon blogger but reviews of Brixton restaurants always seem to creep onto my blog because I just want to give them a big shout-out – so I am so pleased you have done too!!

Yay! I’m glad I could do it justice :-) Thanks so much for the suggestions — I’ve added them all to my list of where to check out when I return (and maybe hopefully move there!)

Yum, the food pictures look delicious! Being in your hometown with a traveller’s mindset is the best thing! I’ve rediscovered my own country recently as well and I’m happy to live at home. Also wandering around with a camera makes you appreciate all the sights you would normally miss!

It makes such a difference, doesn’t it? I was even admiring the lampposts as we were walking around London recently haha!

As a born-and-bred Londoner for 27 years (I moved to Manchester 6 months ago), I’m almost ashamed to say that my only experiences of Brixton have mostly involved underage drinking and various emo gigs at the Academy. I’m travelling at the moment and trying to plan a Christmas visit home with my boyfriend and I think it’s safe to say that eating my way through Brixton is now firmly on my list! …as well as the rugby!

Hahaha! Yes, definitely add Brixton to your list! And the rugby was so. much. fun!

P.S. I love your Taiwan post!

Forget about the food in Brixton and drag Dave down to the O2 and watch a live band. Having just been to see Garbage play the 20th anniversary of their debut album I can definitely recommend it.

Loved the book by the way and from your blog over the years I’m guessing there is more to come ;-)

Ha! Our music tastes don’t align all that often. I’m all about classic rock and he loves grunge. One of the the great things about London, though, is how many people play there! I’d be going to gigs all the time if I lived there :-)

And thank you! So happy to hear you enjoyed my book :-D

That Honest Burger looks and sounds amazing. I will definitely have to check it out on my next visit to London! I’ve never spent much time in Brixton, and now I’m wondering how in the world I missed it.

It’s definitely worth visiting! :-)

Oh wow! I could probably live there too with all that food, and you are right they are not that pricey for London. I lived in the UK for almost 5 years around 12 years ago and haven’t been back since. I remember that I was always complaining about the weather (!) but now I kinda I miss it, especially during the hot and dry season here in Indonesia. And I also miss the prawn cocktail crisps!

Prawn cocktail crisps: so good! It surprises me how much I miss the weather, too.

Oh yum, I could eat everything in this post. Looks like you had an amazing month!

http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com

It was definitely a month of eating! :-D

This has been so helpful. My friends live near Brixton, this article pushed me to get my friends to explore Brixton more. We’ve had great experiences at Mama Lans and Okan. Thanks for posting this!

So happy to hear that, Laura! :-)

Looks like you guys had a fabulous time. Can I explore London with you?? LOL!! Why would you have to fake an American drawl? That is so terrible. Granted I think Brits can fake an American accent better than anyone. You sound even better than Americans do and I am American. LOL!!! Can’t wait to see what your new year of travel brings.

Haha! I fake the accent because nobody can understand my British accent and I get fed up with having to repeat myself 50 times only to have people ask me why I didn’t just pronounce it the American way. Americans usually can’t even understand me when I say my name!

Congratulations on your success with Dave. I have always felt that no matter where you go, home is home. I love food blogs, and yours was that and more. The apartment is stunning, and the food looks delicious. The Mad Hatter’s tea is one party I want to go to. You must have had such a delightful time. Prawn cocktail crisps sound so yummy.

Thanks so much!

I just love Brixton one of my favourite areas in London always check it out for the Jamaican food to be found there. As for Borough market what a heavenly place for a market fan like me. I adore a good farmer’s market and am hoping to collect guest posts on markets around the world.

Yes! I definitely need to head back there for an eating holiday soon :-)

It was interesting reading about your experience in Brixton. I would be interested to visit the place too if I ever go back to London, though I would not be interested in trying out most of the food. Perhaps, I could get a nice flat too that have a nice little kitchen that I can try out my cooking skills.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Guide to london on a budget | how to save money in london.

How to visit London on a budget — what to do, see, and eat for cheap!

It might be a little difficult to visit London on a budget but there are plenty of great ways to save money in London. In fact, there are actually plenty of free things in London so mixing free/cheap attractions with the more expensive paid attractions is a great way to spend less on your visit.

So, to help you stretch your London travel budget further, we’ve enlisted the help of some locals to share their favorite affordable restaurants, pubs, neighborhoods, shops, sights, and other attractions perfect for backpackers and other budget-savvy travelers.

Estimating Your Daily Costs For Visiting London on A Budget

First, let’s take a look at some ballpark costs to see how much it costs to visit London for an average budget-traveler.

I’ll take a much deeper dive into London budget travel costs throughout this article but I wanted to provide a quick overview to get started. You can also check out my London Price Guide .

• Hostel Prices: £25-£55/night (for the cheapest option)
• Budget Hotel Prices: €80-€120/night
• Rental Apartment Prices: €150-€250/night (for an entire centrally-located studio/1br apartment)
• Budget Breakfast: £3-£5
• Budget Lunch: £6-£10
• Budget Dinner: £10-£15
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine):  £3.50-£6
• Most Museums: Free
• Paid Sights: £20-£30
• London Tube Ride: £2.40 (w/ Oyster card)
• London City Bus Ride: £1.50
•  Santander Cycle City Bike: £2 (30-min ride)

Pick Up an Oyster Card For The Tube & Bus

The London Underground (subway) is the fastest way to travel around London but it is expensive — especially if you buy single tickets. You’ll get the best fares when you use the official Oyster Card metro card.

Another benefit to using the Oyster Card is that there is a daily cap (around £8.50) so once you hit that amount you won’t pay extra for the remainder of your rides that day.

Cheap Things To Do In London

London is a bit of an oddity when it comes to sightseeing — the main museums are free but everything else is very expensive.

Take A Free Walking Tour

One of the things I do when I arrive in a new city is to take a free walking tour — it truly helps me get a feel for the city and the local guides usually have some good tips on places to eat and drink.

These tours are often led by university students and the tours tend to be fun/casual and general in their subject matter. Note: These guides work on tips so they’re not “free” but they’re cheap.

Furthermore, most of these walking tours start in the morning so it’s a good excuse to get up and going.

• Strawberry Tours
• Free Tours By Foot
• Free London Walking Tours

London Walks ( www.walks.com ) isn’t free but their highly recommended tours cost £15.

Take A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

I’ve always been a huge fan of Rick Steves and his travel videos, but he’s also put out some excellent self-guided audio walking tours — and they’re all completely free. He has a few different tours for London that cover many of the most-visited areas/sights.

• Download Rick Steves’ London Audio Tours here
• Self-Guided Walking Tours By Free ToursByFoot.com

Buy A Quality Guidebook

Yes, I still like traveling with a guidebook as it gives you a ton of helpful information at your fingertips. Most guidebooks come with travel itineraries, self-guided walking tours, and budget dining suggestions so guidebooks end up paying for themselves very quickly.

My favorite guidebooks are Lonely Planet and Rick Steves since they both focus on budget travel. That said, Amazon has a ton of London guidebooks that focus on multiple types of travel.

See A Lot (And Save) With The London Pass

A lot of travelers end up saving a bit of cash (and time waiting in the ticket lines) with the London Pass as it includes a lot of the most popular tourist attractions — notably the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle, View From The Shard Skyscraper, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour.

I’ve written up a more in-depth London Pass review to see if it’s a good option for your visit.

There is also the newly released London Explorer Pass which might work for some travelers.

Enjoy Cheap Sightseeing Via Public Transport

Tourist open-top buses and river cruises are a great way of seeing a city but they’re expensive. Luckily, London has a few bus routes and a public ferry that will give you a decent look at popular parts of London at a cheap price.

Here’s a link to the popular London Public Bus Routes PDF from above.

• Route 11: The section between Liverpool Street Station and Victoria Station hits many of the city’s sights like the City of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.
• Route 15: This is a great route for tourists as it passes Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, St Paul’s, Blackfriar’s Bridge, Fleet Street, Waterloo Bridge, the Strand, and Trafalgar Square
• Route 9: You’ll go by Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park, Piccadilly, St. James’s Palace, and Trafalgar Square.

The Thames Clipper is London’s public water ferry that runs along the Thames.

Visit One Of the Free London Museums

Below are London’s best free museums but here’s a list of all 26 free museums in London .

BRITISH MUSEUM

Opened in 1759, the British Museum is dedicated to two million years of human history, art, and culture — including Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone. Its collection contains over eight million works so it’s easily one of the largest collections in existence. It’s also the most-visited attraction in Europe.

Naturally, like all museums this large, you might want to pick a few sections that interest you instead of trying to see everything. The museum also offers multiple free daily tours that focus on individual sections and last around 30 minutes.

• Admission: FREE
• Visit Website
• See On Google Maps

TATE MODERN ART MUSEUM

One of the world’s best museums for international and modern contemporary art. The Tate Modern, which is built in a former powerplant, has more than 50,000 pieces in its collection. You can also get excellent city views from its viewing platform.

• Temporary Exhibition: £13–£22

NATIONAL GALLERY

The National Gallery has one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world. The museum’s 2000 works date from the mid-13th century to 1900 — with the main focus on European paintings with works from masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Botticelli, and more.

SAATCHI GALLERY

This private collection of businessman/advertising giant Charles Saatchi. He opened his gallery in 1985 to show his extensive collection of contemporary art and it has grown to be one of the largest private collections in the world.

The collection features both up-and-coming and established contemporary artists so there is always something interesting/cutting-edge/bizarre to check out.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Are you into all aspects of nature? This is the place to visit. The star attraction is the giant whale skeleton and dinosaur gallery but there a plenty of other things to check out. The Natural History Museum is a favorite of children and school groups but it’s still fun for adults.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

The world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design — featuring ceramics, glass, textiles, costumes, silver, ironwork, jewelry, furniture, medieval objects, sculpture, and more from all across the globe.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

The Imperial War Museum covers war and other conflicts from WWI to the present day but its greatest emphasis is on WWII. The ground floor has tanks, trucks, planes, guns, and a range of other military equipment to explore.

There are also exhibits on the Holocaust, spies, and more.

Photographers’ Gallery

This is the first public gallery in the UK dedicated solely to photography. They put on a series of different exhibitions from international and British photographers.

• Tickets are £5 but it’s free after 5 pm (it closes at 6 pm) if you want to pop in.  Visit Website

Tate Britain

The Tate Britain features British artworks spanning from 1500 to the present day. They offer free tours nearly every hour. Be sure to check out  Late at Tate Britain  on the first Friday of every month — featuring half-price admission to exhibitions, live music, and performance art.

• Admission is free except for special exhibits.  Visit Website

Take In London’s Street Art

London has one of the best street art scenes in Europe and it’s absolutely free to check out. You’ll come across street art in most parts of the city but there are a few neighborhoods that attract the best artists.

Check out Google Arts And Culture: London Street Art and Discover Walks: London Street Art Blog Post to plan your own walk but Discover Walks also offers a guided street art walking tour that runs about £17/person.

Attend Service in London’s Most Famous Churches For Free

Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral are two of London’s most famous churches but you have to pay to tour them — unless you’re attending service. Both churches offer multiple services daily.

Chill Out In London’s Best Parks

Pack a picnic or grab a takeaway kebab (or even a few beers) and head to one of London’s many excellent parks. Luckily, London has a ton of parks to choose from (it is one of the greenest cities in the world) so you’re never very far away from some fresh air.

Covering over 350 acres, Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in greater London and it is the largest park in central London. It has plenty of walking/bike trails, a nice late for swimming/boating, and tons of green lawn for a picnic — you can even rent lawn chairs for about £2. It’s also famous for its Speakers’ Corner.

KENSINGTON GARDENS

Kensington Gardens was once the private gardens of Kensington Palace but now it’s open to the public. It’s always full of people enjoying its green space and its large pond has lots of benches to sit on. Kensington Gardens is essentially connected to Hyde Park so it’s easy to explore both locations at the same time.

• See on Google Maps

REGENT’S PARK

Regent’s Park has the largest grass area for sports in Central London and offers a wide variety of activities, an Open Air Theatre, and Queen Mary’s Rose Garden. It’s also home to Regents Park Zoo, Regent’s University & The London Mosque.

To the north of the Regent’s Park you’ll find Primrose Hill — which offers nice city views.

HAMPSTEAD HEATH

Hampstead Heath is a large, 790 acres park to the north of London that’s one of the highest parts of the city so it’s a great place for city views (at Parliament Hill Viewpoint).

Unlike most parks in London, Hampstead Heath is more wild and unmanicured. There are plenty of walking paths, green lawns, and ponds for swimming. You might even seem some deer wandering around.

ST. JAMES’S PARK

This relatively small 57-acre park in central London is located between Buckingham Palace and the House of Parliament so you’ll probably come across it as you explore these two must-visit sights. It’s a very beautiful park with a great pond, plenty of shady trees, and ample paths to stroll.

GREENWICH PARK

This large 183 acres park was once a royal hunting ground and now offers up excellent views of the city. It’s also home to the Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum, Meridian Line, large lawns, and flower gardens.

HOLLAND PARK

Holland Park is another nice park in central London but it’s most known for its Koto Japanese Gardens.

Enjoy City Views of London For Free

It’s hard to beat a Beautiful view of a city as beautiful as London so here are a few places to soak it all in for free.

Located in the “walkie talkie” skyscraper, the Sky Garden is the highest public garden in London and it offers 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. It’s free to visit and you can have dinner and drinks there as well (which aren’t cheap).

Tate Modern Viewing Level

The Tate Modern Museum (also free) has an excellent 360-degree observation level that sits 200-feet above London which overlooks River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the rest of the city’s iconic skyline.

Primrose Hill

Just north of Regent’s Park, you’ll find Primrose Hill. Make the climb to the top to be rewarded with panoramic views over Regent’s Park and the city. Walk up  Regent’s Park Road  on your way there and stop by one of the delis for a picnic lunch.

Note: London has a few notable skyscrapers and most of them have an expensive observation deck. However, they also have bars that serve up expensive drinks, but the view is free and you get to linger for a bit.

Walk Along The Thames River and Its Bridges

The River Thames has a beautiful walking path so it makes an excellent place to go for a stroll. Additionally, many of London’s most famous buildings are situated along the river so that makes for a loverly walk.

When it comes to bridges that span the river, the most iconic bridge is Tower Bridge but Westminster Bridge (in front of Big Ben and the houses of Parliament) and Millennium Bridge (connecting St. Pauls and the Tate Modern) are two other popular attractions as well.

WALK ALONG REGENT’S CANAL

Regents’ Canal is an 8.6-mile canal that runs east to west through northern London (from Little Venice and ends in Docklands). As you walk the canal you’ll come across boats and cafes and cafes on boats and plenty of people enjoying the fresh air.

Do Some Budget-Friendly Shopping

In addition to having just about every chain store and a number of high-end shops, London is also famous for its markets which have vendors selling everything from vintage fashion and trinkets to handmade goods and artisan crafts.

The main markets are:

• Camden Market
• Portobello Road
• Old Spitalfields

London also has a thriving thrift store scene where you might be able to score some second-hand clothing at a decent price (it also has plenty of high-end second-hand stores for more designer apparel).

Recommended thrift stores:

• Beyond Retro
• East End Thrift Store
• Reign Vintage

See A Play or Musical For Cheap

London has a thriving theater scene, and while tickets are typically expensive, there are a few ways to score some cheap tickets.

• Rush Tickets: These are last-minute tickets that haven’t sold and are heavily discounted. They’re on sale the morning of the show at the theater or by calling.
• TodayTix : These tickets go on sale a few days or a few weeks before the show.
• TKTS : This booth sells tickets a few hours before the showtime.

Eating On A Budget in London

It’s still possible to find fairly affordable restaurants in London but you have to know where to look. I’ve teamed up with a few local London folks to bring you some of their favorite places to eat without spending a lot of money. Want more suggestions — check out London Cheap Eats .

Note: I try to focus on value over rock bottom prices because I still want quality food when I’m eating on a budget.

Note: I also focused on restaurants that are fairly centrally located since that’s where most visitors will spend the bulk of their time.

General Budget Dining Tips

International Cuisine Is A Great Value

Chinese, Vietnamese, Turkish, Indian, Thai, and other similar international fare is some of your best bang for your buck when it comes to eating out. I’ve listed many of these restaurants further below in this section.

Pack A Supermarket Picnic

The cheapest way to eat is to shop at one of London’s many supermarkets. The best budget-friendly grocery stores are Tesco , Sainsbury’s , and Coop. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale then check out Marks & Spencers and Waitrose .

Takeaway Is Cheaper

Takeaway meals are taxed at a lower rate so they’re always cheaper than dining in.

Supermarkets Sell Cheap Salads and Sandwiches

Just about every supermarket will sell pre-made sandwiches and salads that are reasonably affordable. You can also stock up on cheap drinks, fruit, and snacks while you’re there. Most supermarkets will have “meal deals” that consists of a sandwich, bottle of water, and some chips for around £5.

Skip The Soda

Thanks to high taxes on sugary drinks, soda ends up being super expensive.

Don’t Overtip

In many cases, the service fee is already included in the bill so there is no need to tip extra. If your bill doesn’t mention a service fee then 10% is fine.

Eat Your Way Through Borough Market

Borough Market is a wholesale and retail food market hall in Southwark, London, England. In fact, it’s one of the largest and oldest food markets in London (there has been some form of a market on this site since the 12th century). There are also a number of food stalls selling prepared food or you can pick up fresh produce and baked goods.

• See List Of All The Trader and Food Sellers

Visit The Food Stalls At Camden Market

Camden Market has become one of the must-visit spots in London thanks to its 1000 shops and stalls selling clothing, music, art, and food.

It has around 100 food stalls and restaurants serving up just about everything. I’ll admit that you’re probably paying a bit of a premium here but it’s a fun atmosphere and experience.

• See List Of All Dining Options

Visit KERB, The Hip Street Food Market

KERB is a multi-location street market located throughout London. The offerings at KERB tend to be a bit more innovative than other markets so you can find lots of interesting offerings here.

• Visit Their Website

Eat At Street Feasts

Street Feasts is another street food company that runs multiple street food markets in London.

Chow Down on Fish and Chips

London has a ton of spots to get fish and chips but a majority of them are either overpriced or just not very good. This places listed here have all been pre-vetted by our locals for being a good value for the money.

Fishcotheque

This traditional hole-in-the-wall joint is tucked under a bridge and serves up generous portions for a reasonable price. They’re a local favorite so it can get busy during lunch and dinner.

• Order of Fish and Chips: £13

The Golden Hind Restaurant Marylebone

Another no-frills and much-loved mainstay with large portions (and long lines).

• Order of Fish and Chips: £13-£16

Poppie’s Fish And Chips

Poppie’s is one of London’s most famous and popular chippy joints so you can’t really go wrong here. It’s a little more expensive but its quality is top-notch.

• Order of Fish and Chips: £14-£18
• See Locations on Google Maps

The Laughing Halibut

An old-school joint that’s always busy and popular with both locals and tourists. Prices are very reasonable for the super central area.

• Order of Fish and Chips: £11-£13
• See Location on Google

Opened in 1982, this bustling award-winning shop serves up some of the best traditional fish and chips in London. Dine-in or takeaway.

• Order of Fish and Chips: £9.50-£12

Golden Union Fish Bar

Another super popular joint right in the middle of London. Expect to wait in line for about 20-30 minutes at this no-frills spot during the busy time but it’s worth the wait.

• Order of Fish and Chips: £10

Gigs Fish & Chips

Opened in 1958, Gigs obviously knows what they’re doing if they’ve survived this long in a city that seems to have a chippy everywhere you look. 

• Order of Fish and Chips: £8 (takeaway) – £14.50 (dine-in)

Masters Superfish

No-frills traditional joint with fresh and tasty fish and chips.

Start Your Day With An English Breakfast

What’s the best way to fuel up for a full day of sightseeing? A full English breakfast — which is traditionally a plate full of bacon, sausages, eggs, black pudding, baked beans, tomatoes and mushrooms, toast that’s served with coffee or tea.

Well, it might put you in a food coma as well but this greasy fry-up won’t leave you hungry. These days a full English breakfast can range from low-frills to gourmet but we’re going to focus on a few local favorite spots.

Regency Cafe

Cheap, no-frills, delicious, and always busy (get there early to avoid a long wait). This authentic spot has been around since 1946 and is a local favorite.

• Full English Breakfast: Starts at £6.00

A cool art-deco workers’ cafe that’s been serving up English breakfasts to hungry folks since 1900. Another super authentic local favorite.

• Full English Breakfast: Starts at £8.40

Another local favorite with large portions at an affordable price.

• Full English Breakfast: Starts at £5.50-£6

Terry’s Cafe

Old-school, family-run cafe. Quality food for a good price. A local favorite since 1982.

• Full English Breakfast: Starts at £8.50-£12

Devour London’s Indian Cuisine Scene

Outside of India, London is the best place to get excellent Indian food that spans multiple regions of India. London is also home to many high-end Indian restaurants but we’re going to focus on more budget-friendly options.

Expect long lines and excellent Bombay-style comfort food at this popular restaurant. The prices are fair, the atmosphere is buzzing, and the quality of food and drinks is excellent. Many people say this is their favorite Indian restaurant in London.

• Main Dishes: £9-£13

Opened in 1972, this no-frills Punjabi restaurant is famous for their spicy dishes. It’s a popular spot so expect a wait.

• Main Dishes: £7-£11

A popular spot for family-style Sri Lankan authentic cuisine. They’re also known for their cocktail menu.

Kricket SOHO

This lovely and hip Mumbai-style joint serves up modern tapas-style dishes and excellent cocktails. The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable.

• Main Dishes: £7-£12

Raavi Kebab

A favorite for Pakistani-style Punjabi food. No-frills but very authentic.

Gujarati Rasoi

This popular stall in Borough Market serves up classic Indian dishes to go.

• Main Dishes: £7

Govinda’s Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Govinda’s, which is linked to the Radha Krishna Temple, serves vegetarian and vegan Indian dishes and desserts at very affordable prices.

• Main Dishes: £7-£14

Cafe Tiffin

This small Indian restaurant is another spot that has solid Indian dishes at a good price. It’s also BYOB so that’s another way to save a little cash.

• Main Dishes: £8-£11

Grab Some Pizza

Pizza is always a good idea when you’re a hungry traveler looking to save a little cash. Here are some of London’s top pizza joints and many serve by the slice if you’re looking for something on the go.

Solid Italian-style pizza for a great value. 

• Prices: £4.50-£7.50

Pizza Pilgrims

Another great option for excellent pizza at a great price. 

• Prices: £6-£11

Franco Manca

Franco Manca has 50 locations in Italy and the UK and they serve up great sourdough Neapolitan pizza for a good price. 

• Prices: £5-£10

Homeslice Pizza

Homeslice a multi-location pizza joint that’s most well-known for its giant 20″ pizzas and large single slices.

• Prices: £4 (slice) & £20 (full pizza)

Pizza Union

Great authentic thin and crispy pizzas. 

• Prices: £5-£8

More Budget-Friendly Restaurants in London

I received so many excellent recommendations for cheap places to eat in London that I had a hard time categorizing them… so I decided to place them all in this section.

That’s why here you’ll find everything from British and French to Italian and Thai.

Goddards at Greenwich (British)

This traditional pie mash and liquor restaurant has been around since 1890 and they serve up handmade pie & mash daily at a fair price. They have some nice traditional British desserts as well.

• Main Dishes: £4.50-£9

MotherMash (British)

This bustling cafe whips up tasty pies, sausages, and mash for a fair price. A good place to try some British comfort-food staples.

• Main Dishes: £10

Padella (Italian/Pasta)

One of the most popular budget-friendly pasta spots in London. The pasta is all handmade in front of you and the quality is great for the price. Their takeaway pasta dishes range from around £5-£8.

• Main Dishes: £5-£8

Flat Iron (Steakhouse)

This popular casual chain serves up a nice flat iron steak and a salad for £12 (sides are extra).

• Main Dishes: £12

Super tasty NYC-style buttermilk-fried chicken sandwiches.

• Main Dishes: £6-£11

Chik’n

Another fried-chicken sandwich joint.

• Main Dishes: £6-£9

Hiba (Lebanese and Palestinian)

This family-run (the grandma is the head chef) Lebanese and Palestinian restaurant serves up excellent food for a fair price. Super friendly and welcoming. Lunch falafel/wrap deals start around £6.50.

• Main Dishes: £6.50-£9

Lahore Kebab House (Pakistani)

Super popular Pakistani restaurant that’s famous for its kebabs and other grilled meats.

• Main Dishes: £9-£11

Sông Quê Café (Vietnamese/Pho)

Excellent Vietnamese place to get authentic beef pho at a great price. Super popular so expect a line.

• Main Dishes: £7.50-£10

Cafe East (Vietnamese)

Another super popular Vietnamese restaurant with excellent food and great prices.

• Main Dishes: £9-£10

Bone Daddies (Japanese/Ramen)

This multi-location joint serves up excellent ramen in an ultra-hip atmosphere and has solid cocktails.

• Main Dishes: £10-£13

Shoryu (Japanese/Ramen)

Another super popular multi-location Japanese joint serving handmade ramen in pork broth, plus sake and Japanese whiskies.

• Main Dishes: £10-£14

Koya Bar (Japanese)

Compact Japanese spot famous for their Udon noodles.

Bibimbap Soho (Korean)

A great little Korean restaurant with tasty food (bibimbap & bento boxes, etc.) and good service.

Jin’s Kitchen (Korean)

This tiny budget-friendly takeaway snack bar serves up Korean fast food.

Franco Manco (Pizza)

This multi-location restaurant serves excellent wood-fired sourdough pizza at a great price.

• Main Dishes: £5.50-£8

Le Mercury (French)

It’s not often you can find budget-friendly French food but that’s what you’ll find at Le Mercury. This neighborhood institution is always bustling thanks to its quality meals so you might want to book ahead.

• Main Dishes: £12-£14

La Porchetta Pollo Bar (Italian)

A longtime unpretentious and cozy Italian restaurant with great pizza and pasta.

• Main Dishes: £8-£13

Polop (Italian)

Excellent Venetian-style Italian cafe with small plates, good wines, and reasonable prices. Always busy for a reason.

• Main Dishes: £7-£13

GReat Grill House (Greek)

Simple Greek spot with great gyros and other grilled meats.

• Main Dishes: £5.50-£11

Fez Mangal (Turkish)

Tiny Turkish cafe with an open grill and excellent lamb & chicken kebabs.

• Main Dishes: £5.50-£10

Comptoir Libanais (Lebanese)

Lovely vibe, lovely food, and lovely refreshments.

Patogh (Iranian/Persian)

Unfussy Iranian joint with grilled meat and fish.

What The Pitta (Vegan)

Super popular thanks to their excellent vegan kebabs — some say they’re better than non-vegan kebabs.

• Main Dishes: £8-£12

Mildreds (Vegan)

Very popular vegetarian restaurant with an emphasis on organic, seasonal produce.

• Main Dishes: £8-£14

Have A Pint In An Old Historic Pub

London is home to thousands of pubs and a handful of them date back to 1600-1700s. You can certainly find “cheaper” places to get a beer but the awesome atmosphere is worth the minimal extra cost. Furthermore, most of these pubs will serve up classic British “pub grub” if you want a filling meal.

Here are some of the best historic London pubs:

• The Black Friar  (est. 1875)
• Cittie of Yorke  (est. 1920 but the buildings on the site have been pubs since 1430)
• The Cross Keys  (est. 1840s  — highly recommended)
• The French House  (est. 1891)
• The George  (est. 1600s)
• The Grapes  (est. 1583)
• The Grenadier  (est. 1818 — highly recommended)
• Hoop & Grapes  (One of the few timber buildings to escape the Great Fire of London in 1666)
• Lamb & Flag  (est. 1620s and favorite of Charles Dickens — highly recommended)
• The Mayflower  (est. 1600s — highly recommended)
• The Nag’s Head  (est. 1800s)
• The Old Bell  (est. 1600s)
• The Prospect of Whitby  (est. 1520s)
• The Seven Stars  (est. 1602)
• The Spaniards Inn  (est. 1500s)
• The Tipperary  (est. 1667)
• The Viaduct  (est. 1865)
• Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (est. 1667 but a pub has been there since 1538 — highly recommended)
• Ye Olde Mitre (est. 1546 — highly recommended)

Cheap Accommodation

London can be a killer when it comes to hotels, hostels, and rental apartments.

The Best Hostels in London

London has more than 100 hostels — which makes it one of the best hostel cities in the world.  Visit  Hostelworld  to see them all.

Well-rated hostels generally cost between £25-£50/night for the cheapest bed option but you might be able to find a few that are around £20/night. Ultra-budget travelers can find something closer to £15 but don’t expect much quality. Prices do tend to be a bit more expensive on Friday and Saturday night for the weekend travel crowd.

Here are a few of the best hostel options:

• Wombats City Hostel London
• Astor Hyde Park
• Astor Queensway
• Barmy Badger Backpackers
• MEININGER London Hyde Park
• Generator London

Want to learn more? Read our guide to the  Best Hostels in London and check out my Hostel Packing List .

Airbnb & Airbnb Alternatives

London has a healthy stock of short term rental apartments which will offer more space at a similar/cheaper price than you’ll find in a hotel. In addition, an apartment can be a great option for large families or for groups traveling together.

The main rental is Airbnb so I suggest starting there.

You can expect to pay €150-€250/night for a modest studio or one-bedroom apartment in the center of London. Obviously, the prices go up if you want something nicer or with more space but you can save quite a bit if you don’t mind staying outside of central London.

Check Airbnb to get an idea of current prices as they also fluctuate based on the time of year you’re traveling. I’ve also written a guide to Airbnb alternatives if you’re looking for different options.

Explore London On A Santander Cycle

London is a bike-friendly city so you’ll find plenty of protected bike lanes. And thanks to the Santander Cycle bike share system , for £2 you can get unlimited journeys up to 30 minutes, within a 24 hour period and there are stations all over the city.

Save Money Going To/From The Airports

Traveling between London’s multiple airports and the city center can be expensive. Here are a few of the different options for each airport.

• You can take the London Underground between the airport and the city for around £6. The ride takes around an hour. The Heathrow Express only takes 15 minutes but it’s more expensive at £22 — however, you can often pre-book well in advance and get a ticket as low as £6.
• There is a National Express bus that costs £6 and takes anywhere from 40-90 minutes depending on traffic.
• A taxi will set you back around £80 and will take around 45-60 minutes.
• The National Rail offers a train from Gatwick into central London which takes between 30-45 minutes and tickets run between £10-£20.
• The Gatwick Express costs £20 and the trip takes 30 minutes.
• The National Express bus costs £8 but can take nearly two hours because of traffic.
• The Stansted Express costs £17 takes around 45 minutes.
• There are a handful of different bus services ( Airport Bus Express and EasyBus ) that all take around 60-90 minutes and cost £6-£10.
• National Rail has train service that costs £15 and it takes around 45 minutes.
• There is bus service that costs £5-£10 and takes around 90 minutes.

General Budget Travel Tips

Here are a few more budget-travel related articles I’ve written that will help you save money while visiting London.

Get Strategic With Your Sightseeing

A little planning goes a long way when you visit London. Here are a few simple things you can do to save yourself a lot of time, money, and frustration:

• Segment Sightseeing By Location: London is a large city so group your sightseeing by location so you don’t waste time visiting attractions that are spread out.
• Overextending Yourself: London has so much to see but you can’t see it all. Unfortunately, many people try to see too much and end up getting burnt out. In my opinion, it’s better to spend more time seeing less so you can actually absorb the experience… and you spend less as well.
• Have An Idea Where To Eat: One of the quickest ways to bust your budget is by eating and we all tend to eat anywhere once we’re hungry. So jot down a few places to eat before you head out for the day.
• Research Hours: Don’t forget to check the hours of the attractions you want to visit since most places are closed at least one day a week.

Skip The Tube For Short Walking Distances

Since riding the London Underground is fairly expensive, it’s best to walk if the distances are reasonable. In general, if you’re going less than three stops it’s often faster to walk anyways (the Tube map makes distances between stations appear much further apart than they actually are).

Plus, walking lets you actually see the city.

Avoid/Limit Credit Card and Debit Card Fees

Credit card fees and ATM withdrawal fees from your bank can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars before you know it. Check out my guide on Using Money In Europe: ATMs, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Exchange Rates

Pick Your Travel Season

If you’re on a budget, you’ll be able to save a good amount on your accommodation and airfare if you visit during the offseason. That said, London is a popular year-round destination and the weather is mild, so price drops aren’t as large as you’d find in other cities.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance helps you avoid many of those unexpected and costly things that can arise while traveling. For budget travelers, I prefer World Nomads since they’re affordable and easy to work with.

Reclaim The Value Added Tax (VAT)

Most goods in the UK include a tax (VAT) of around 20% but non-citizens aren’t required to pay this tax. It’s kind of a pain to get the money back but if you make a few large purchases you could get a decent amount back.

To get your money back you’ll have to visit the office at the airport. The process can take a few hours since a lot of people do it and the office isn’t staffed with enough employees to process claims quickly.

General Ways To Save on Food and Drink

I’ve already covered many of the best budget restaurants in London in this article but here is a general guide about How to Eat and Drink on a Budget While Traveling in Europe

Save On Traveling England By Train

Is London just one city you’ll be visiting in England? Check out my England Train Guide for ways to save money while using the UK train system.

Packing Advice and Packing Lists

What you should you pack when you visiting London (and beyond)? I got you covered.

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Travel Europe Packing List for Women
• Europe Packing List  (for any travel style)
• Hostel Packing List
• Ultralight Travel Packing List
• Winter Packing List for Europe
• Best Travel Backpacks  
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
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Backpacking in the United Kingdom , Budget Travel Guides

How to visit london on a budget.

Visiting London on a budget can be challenging, but it is definitely possible. It took me a while to get to know my own capital city but after several visits, I’ve finally got London on a budget sorted!  Check out my top tips to make the most of a cheap London trip, including the best free things to do in London, how to get around and where to stay in London on a budget! 

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The Cheapest Time to Visit London

The best time to visit London if you’re on a budget is during the off-season or shoulder season.  London can be very busy and expensive during the peak tourist season, which is typically from June to August, but if you come outside of school holidays the prices drop and it is quieter too.

My favourite time to visit London is during the Spring or Autumn (Fall), as springtime brings blooming flowers and the weather starts to improve.  In the Autumn you can still get good weather, and the parks are lovely as the leaves start to change colour.

Visiting London in the winter is a good idea for Christmas shopping, and although the weather is likely to be cold and wet there are lots of things to do in London in the rain so as long as you prepare for the weather you will be fine!  In November there are special displays and events for Remembrance Sunday on November 11th. 

Of course, having a weekend away in London is a lovely idea, but Friday and Saturday nights in hotels are the most expensive for leisure travellers, and Tuesday and Wednesday nights are expensive because of business travellers.  Staying in London on a Sunday and Monday night for example should save you some cash on hotel stays. 

How to Get to London for Cheap

Cheap flights to london.

London has several airports serving the city so you can choose from a range of flight options to match your budget.  Before you book the flight, remember to check how to get from the airport into London, as some airports are further away than others. 

Book Your Flights

• Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to your destination.  Being flexible on dates and departure airports can save you money, so check to see what works best for you.
• Public buses or trains (or walking!) are the cheapest ways to get to your accommodation from the airport, but a shared shuttle transfer is quicker and easier.  >>>Check out options for airport transfers on GetYourGuide.
• Try Omio for booking trains and Busbud (or Flixbus in Europe) for buses.

Getting Around London

Use public transport in london.

London has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and the Tube (also known as the Underground).  Sometimes I prefer to get the bus so I can watch the world go by as I travel, or if I need to get somewhere quickly then the tube is usually best.

You can buy single tickets but the cheapest option is either to buy an Oyster Card and use that, or use a contactless card as they have daily and weekly limits, after which you journeys are free.  Just make sure you use the same card each time you travel otherwise the limits won’t apply. 

Buses are cashless so you can’t buy a ticket on the bus with cash.

Is Oyster Card Cheaper than Contactless?  It depends!  

If you have a UK bank card that is contactless, just use that and you will pay the same as you would with an Oyster Card.  You can also use contactless payments on your phone – if you make sure you don’t run out of battery.

However, not all foreign cards work with contactless, and if your card charges international transaction fees you will be charged every time you use your card, so in that case it is best to buy an Oyster Card.

A Visitor Oyster card costs £5 (plus postage) and is pre-loaded with however much credit you choose to add.  You can top up your Oyster Card as needed and the credit never expires so you can use it for future trips, or request a refund for unused credit when you leave.

Children under 11 travel free on buses and trams as well as on the Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and some National Rail services when accompanied by a fare-paying adult (up to four children per adult).

If you are travelling with children aged 11-15, buy a Visitor Oyster card in advance and when you arrive you can add a Young Visitor discount to the card.

It’s also great to take a walk in London to enjoy the sights as you wander around.  While some London attractions are spread out, you can walk along the Thames River to see some of the most popular places in London – and if you get tired then hop on the tube or a bus to get back to your accommodation.

Where to Stay in London on a Budget

There are lots of hostels and budget hotels in London that offer affordable accommodation options.  Hotels close to tourist areas and main train stations are usually more expensive so consider places that are in less central areas, but still have good access to public transportation so you can save some cash.

I love the area around Tower Bridge as it is walking distance to a lot of the attractions such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, while not being crazy expensive.  It is also well connected by the Tube to the rest of London, being close to the underground stations Tower Bridge for the Circle and District Lines, and Aldgate East for the Hammersmith Line.

The Best Hostels in London

The cheapest way to travel in London is to stay in a shared hostel dorm.  Yes you’ll be sharing a room with strangers (potential new friends?) but if you really are on a tight budget you can’t beat the price of a hostel dorm bed.

One thing to look out for is the age limit, as many of the highly-rated London hostels have an age limit of 18-35 or 18-40, so if you’re an older budget traveller like me then you won’t be able to stay there.  That’s one of the reasons why I love Wombat’s as they don’t have a limit, but if you are in a younger bracket you have a lot more options to choose from.

Wombat’s City Hostel London

I usually stay at Wombat’s City Hostel London , a fabulous hostel close to Tower Bridge that is spotlessly clean, with friendly staff and an unbeatable location. Dorm rooms are great for backpackers or visitors on a strict budget, or there are private rooms available for all the perks of being in a hostel with the privacy of your own room. 

Wombat’s London is about 10 minutes’ walk from Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and Tower Hill underground station, and is walking distance from Shoreditch, Borough Market and plenty more places to see in London.  The only age requirement is 18+, unlike some other London hostels which don’t allow older people.

You can read my full review of Wombat’s London here .  >>>READ MORE REVIEWS AND BOOK

Hostel One Notting Hill

The highest rated hostel on Hostelworld, this clean and well-equipped hostel is in the heart of Notting Hill and perfect for young travellers looking for a hostel in London.  Hostel One has an age limit of 18-36 years old.

There is a nice terrace and social areas for meeting people and lots of activities arranged by the staff.  The private rooms are expensive but dorm rooms are good value for what you get.  >>>CHECK PRICES & READ REVIEWS

BROWSE MORE HOSTELS IN LONDON

How to Find Cheap Hotels in London

There are thousands of hotels in London to choose from, and you can find something for every budget, although getting the balance between good quality and good value isn’t easy!  I usually try to book hotels with ratings at least over 8.0 in Booking.com , but in London I do go down to 7.5 for good value hotels.  

Staying outside of the city centre is cheaper, so if you are staying in London for several days you could save money that way, but if you are short on time then somewhere close to central London is a must.  And if you think about it, you won’t be in the room very much anyway, so location is probably more important than luxury unless you’re having a romantic weekend away.

As for price point, finding a room in a decent hotel in London for under £100 is possible for certain dates but don’t be surprised if you’re looking at more like £150 as a minimum budget, or even £200 for a Saturday night. 

As I said earlier, weekend stays and Tuesday/Wednesday nights are usually the most expensive, as are dates when big events are happening in the city, so try to be flexible with your travel days if you can.

Look out for different room types too, private rooms with shared bathrooms are cheaper than en-suite rooms, and some hotels will offer budget rooms that don’t have windows, or single rooms with single beds instead of a queen or double.  Non-refundable rates are also cheaper than ones with flexible cancellation policies. 

It all comes down to what you are willing to compromise on to save money on your London trip.

When I’m searching for cheap hotel rooms in London I go to Booking.com , put in my dates and room requirements, and sort the results by price, lowest first.  On the left hand-side I scroll down to filter the results by rating (over 7) and take a look at the list.  Using the map feature I check the location, then read reviews to see if I like the places.  

As I use Booking for all of my hotel stays I am a Genius member and also get access to special offers for up to 30% discount on rooms and other perks like free breakfast or room upgrades for some bookings, so if you travel regularly that comes in handy! >>>READ MORE ABOUT GENIUS DISCOUNTS

FIND CHEAP HOTELS IN LONDON

The Best Budget Hotels in London

These are some of my top picks for budget hotels in London that combine good price, good reviews and a good location:

Motel One London-Tower Hill

The Motel One London-Tower Hill is a budget-friendly hotel in the City of London, one of my favourite areas to stay in London.  It’s a short walk from Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, and close to Brick Lane as well as transport links at Liverpool Street Station and Tower Hill and Aldgate underground stations. 

The hotel offers stylish, air-conditioned rooms with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and ensuite bathrooms with rain showers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there is a 24-hour reception desk. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast buffet and drinks at the hotel bar. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY  

Pembridge Palace Hotel – Notting Hill

Pembridge Palace Hotel is walking distance to Notting Hill and Portobello Market, and 5 minutes walk Bayswater tube station so you can easily get around the city.  Rooms are comfortable, (if a little small according to some reviews) most with ensuite bathrooms, and free wifi is available in the lobby public areas.  >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY  

The Z Hotel Covent Garden

Z Covent Garden is a stylish and modern hotel located in the London’s theater district, just a few minutes’ walk from Covent Garden Piazza and is a great choice if you want to see a show while you’re in London. There are other Z Hotels in London but this one gets the best ratings and is excellent value for the location.

Rooms are small but all have en-suite shower rooms and large Samsung HD TVs as well as free wifi throughout the hotel.  There is a roof-top terrace and cafe downstairs.  

  >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY  

Cheap Things to Do in London on a Budget

When it comes to things to do in London, you can end up spending a lot of money on activities but there are ways to get discounts on tickets for attractions and events like theatre shows. 

Discount websites like Groupon and Time Out often offer discounted tickets to attractions, restaurants and events in London and have offers for things like afternoon teas which can be fun. However, make sure you read the fine print and check the expiration date before buying anything.

Booking attractions and activities in advance can save you money and time. Many attractions offer discounts for advance booking, and you can avoid the long lines.  Do your research and compare prices.

If you plan on visiting many of the city’s paid attractions, a London Pass may save you money. The pass offers entry to over 80 attractions, as well as discounts on dining and shopping.

If you can afford to splurge a little, check out some of the top tours and paid attractions in London:

Free Things to do in London

If you are on the tightest of budgets and don’t want to spend anything then there are tons of free London activities you can enjoy too.

Take a Free Walking Tour in London

As with any free walking tours, it is customary to tip your guide if they have done a good job.  So, strictly speaking these aren’t free tours but I wanted to include them anyway as they are excellent value and are some of the best cheap things to do in London.

I took a walking tour of London Landmarks East with Strawberry Tours from Wombat’s Hostel, or you can sign up for the tour online and meet by Tower Hill underground station.  You can also find free walking tours of West London,  graffiti tours , Harry Potter Tours and food tours too.  Check the full details  here .

Visit Historic Landmarks

London is steeped in history, and many of its famous landmarks are free to see from the outside so you can tick those off your London bucket list for free!  See Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral and even Buckingham Palace for free.

You can admire the architecture and take photos without spending a penny, but there are charges to go inside.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One of the best things to do in London for free, the Changing of the Guard takes place on alternate days at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.  It is a traditional ceremony where the soldiers currently on duty hand over responsibilities to the New Guard, accompanied by a band.

The soldiers are all dressed in their official uniforms, complete with red tunics and black bearskin caps. The ceremony begins at 10:45am and lasts for about 45 minutes. Arrive early to get the best view!  Check the official website here for up to date times and locations.

The Thames River Walk

The Thames cuts through the heart of London and offers spectacular views of the London Skyline right the way from Big Ben and the London Eye through to the O2 Arena if you care to walk that far!

My favourite spots include the area close to Tower Bridge where you can see the bridge itself,  the Tower of London  and the Shard on the other side.  You can walk across Tower Bridge for free, but there is a small fee to enter the museum and get to the upper viewing platform.

Cross the Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge was was first opened in 2000 but soon closed to make some structural changes.  It re-opened in 2002 and has since been featured in films like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and Guardians of the Galaxy (as part of Xandar). 

From the bridge, you get one of the  best views in London  of St Paul’s, especially first thing in the morning before it gets busy, or at night when the city lights reflect off the water of the Thames.

The London Wall

I must have walked past the London wall 50 times before realising that it is actually part of the Roman Wall around the city of Londinium, which was built around 200 AD.  The wall was about 2.5 miles (4 kilometres) long, enclosing an area of about 330 acres, but much of it has been built on, torn down or hidden for centuries. 

You can complete a walk of the remaining sections of the wall, with the most complete parts being close to Tower Hill underground station and the Museum of London.

Go Instagram Crazy in Notting Hill

Notting Hill is one of the prettiest areas of London and one of the most colourful places in the world!  Almost every house is painted a different colour, so you can take your pick from the pastel shades of pink, purple and yellow to find your perfect shot.

Take a Walk in the Park(s)

There are some wonderful parks to enjoy for free in London.  My personal favourite is Richmond Park, a national nature reserve and a haven for wildlife, including around 300 Red Deer and 240 Fallow Deer who roam freely, so you can get close to nature in the heart of the city. 

Battersea Park, St James’ Park, Regents Park, Hyde Park and Greenwich Park are just some of the other green spaces in London where you can get some fresh air and enjoy the sunshine.

Explore Cool London Markets

London has some incredible markets where you can find unique souvenirs, vintage clothing, and international cuisine at affordable prices or just enjoy the atmosphere for free. Some popular markets include Camden Market, Borough Market, and Brick Lane Market.

For photo opportunities, don’t miss Leadenhall Market, a beautiful Victorian indoor market is filled with shops selling everything from cured meats to clothing and cute gifts, as well as bars and restaurants.  It was also a Harry Potter filming location. 

Visit the Free Museums in London

There are a crazy amount of free museums and galleries in London!  All of these are free to enter, although a donation is appreciated.  There may be charges for special exhibitions, but you can enjoy most of the museums’ exhibits for free.

The Natural History Museum is one of my all-time favourite museums in London and the Tate Modern has great views from the terrace as well as a fabulous selection of modern art including works by Jackson Pollack, David Hockney and Andy Warhol among many others.

For classic works, head to the National Gallery to admire seminal works by Turner, Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, Rousseau and more.  The Design Museum, Imperial War Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum are also free to visit.

Check Out the Street Art on Brick Lane

If you prefer your art to be outdoors instead of in galleries, Brick Lane is THE place to go for street art.  There are fabulous murals, stencils and beautiful artwork all over the place – check out this article about the street art to do a self-guided street art tour .

On Sundays there is also a market in Brick Lane, as well as the usual funky shops and boutiques along the road.

Where to Find Cheap Food in London

You can get some delicious cheap eats in London so you can fill your belly without emptying your wallet.  Check out these places to eat cheaply in London:

TOP BUDGET TIP: Don’t buy bottled drinks, bring your own reusable water bottle and fill it up.  Many cafes and restaurants will fill up your bottle for you if you ask them if you can’t find a water fountain.

Street Food Markets

London has a thriving street food scene, with many markets offering a variety of affordable and delicious cuisines. Some popular markets include Borough Market, Camden Market, and Greenwich Market, as well as Sunday’s Brick Lane Market.

Traditional British pub food can be found all over London, and is often reasonably priced. Try classic dishes like fish and chips, bangers (sausages) and mash, and pie and peas.

Cafes and Sandwich Shops

There are many independent cafes and sandwich shops in London that offer tasty and affordable meals. You can find options for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, such as croissants, bagels, sandwiches, and salads.  Cafes are best for breakfast (a full English will set you up for the day!) or lunch as they usually close around 3pm.

London has a variety of takeaway shops that offer quick and cheap meals although they aren’t the healthiest options.  You can find cheap kebabs, burgers, fried chicken, pizza and more at takeaways all over the city. Look for places that have good reviews and ratings before you buy.

Chain Restaurants

Some chain restaurants in London offer affordable meals, such as Nando’s, Pizza Hut, and Wagamama. You can often find deals and discounts online or through loyalty programs.

Supermarkets and High-Street Shops

Many supermarkets and shops like Boots and WH Smith in London offer ready-made meals like sandwiches, salads and snacks at affordable prices.  Meal Deals usually include a sandwich or salad, crisps or a snack like a chocolate bar, and a drink. 

In supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsburys you can also find fresh produce and bakery items to create your own meals.  Pack a picnic to eat at one of the parks, or take something back to your accommodation to cook if you have self-catering facilities.

Final London Budget Tip

I hope find this epic London budget guide to be useful for planning your London trip.  I love London, despite being a Northerner through and through – just remember that as fabulous as visiting London is, try to get outside the city and see more of the UK while you’re here! 

Head north from London to visit cities like Leeds , Liverpool , Manchester and Birmingham, or one of my favourite places in the UK, York , for a cheaper city break.  Even Edinburgh is only 4.5 hours from London by train.  But, London is London, one of the best cities on earth, so I am always happy to help you enjoy London on a budget!

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Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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Budget Travel With Gabby

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London Budget Travel Guide: How To Enjoy London On A Budget

The ultimate London budget travel guide: everything you need to know for exploring London on a budget!

London is a world-famous, multicultural, fast-paced city that many travelers venture to at some point in their lives.

Hopefully, this travel guide will show others that London doesn’t have to be expensive!

I’ll list many different ways to save money while visiting London, including affordable transport, the best cheap places to eat in London, and other free or cheap things to do in London. 

Keep in mind, this is a LONDON BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE , so everything I list is catered towards budget travelers .

There are some classic London tourist attractions that cost money, so I won’t be discussing those much.

I’ll focus more on transport, food, and free or cheap activities that make exploring London fun and affordable.

This London budget travel guide will not include accommodation. I always stay with friends or family while visiting London so I don’t have much experience with hostels there.

BUT if I did need to find cheap accommodation in London , I’d use Hostelworld , or I would search on Workaway or Worldpackers for a work exchange.

Before traveling to the UK, visit iVisa.com to find out if you need a visa.

The Ultimate London Budget Travel Guide

Here are all the ways I enjoy London on a budget. From transport, to free activities and viewpoints, to cheap food, I never spend too much money in London with these tips!

London Budget Travel Guide: Transport

It’s easy to get around London on a budget if you know the ins and outs of the transport system. Here is how to save money on London transport, based on my own experience.

Walking is Always the Cheapest!

When you visit London, WALK EVERYWHERE IF YOU CAN!

The city center is massive, but walking helps you catch all of London’s history and little expressions of beauty , such as street art, historical buildings, and other cultural insights.

If you hope to see different parts of the city in a short time, public transport is necessary .

Just make sure to follow these tips while visiting London. I promise they’ll help you avoid spending a fortune on expensive transport.

Cheap Transport To and From London Airports

Choosing the right public transport to and from the airports will help you save money in London. All bus and train tickets can be bought on the day of travel at the station.

When traveling from London to Stansted or Luton Airport for a departing flight , I recommend buying your ticket at least one day in advance .

Coach buses can sometimes fill up and you don’t want to risk missing the bus you need and waiting for the next one.

Now I’ll list the cheapest method of transport to and from central London and each of the 4 major airports.

When I refer to a “tube journey”, I’m talking about the London underground (the metro, subway, whatever you’d like to call it. Locals call it the tube!)

How to get from Heathrow Airport to London city center: Tube

A tube journey on the Piccadilly Tube Line takes about 50 minutes from Heathrow Airport right into the city center. It only costs around six pounds .

The Heathrow Express is a little quicker for reaching Central London. But it is so much more expensive than the easy tube ride.

How to get from Gatwick Airport to London city center: Train

Southern Train Lines head from Gatwick Airport to London Bridge Station frequently. The journey takes one hour and costs around 12 pounds .

This is easily the most straightforward and affordable method of transport into the city.

How to get from Stanstead Airport to London city center: Coach Bus

Take the National Express Coach Bus from the airport to either Liverpool Street Station (East/Central London) or Victoria Coach Station (West/Central London).

This journey costs around 12 pounds , depending on the time of day. It takes between 1 and 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

How to get from Luton Airport to London city center: Coach Bus

National Express Coach Buses are also cheap and easy ways to travel between Luton Airport and city.

But there are many other coach bus companies that work here as well.

EasyBus , owned by EasyJet Airlines which often flies out of Luton, can be another cheap option.

Visit Skyscanner to research cheap flights to and from London!

Cheap Transport within London

The most important step to exploring London is buying an Oyster Card . You can buy one in almost any convenience store and they cost only five pounds .

Then you can add money to your card at tube stations or in convenience stores so you can use the public buses and the underground.

When leaving the city, you can return your oyster card at the airport and get any leftover money back in cash .

London Bus Travel

Any bus journey costs 1.50 pounds , which is significantly cheaper than the tube.

Every bus stop has a small map that outlines various bus routes around London, and every stop is announced inside the bus so you always know where you are.

Bonus Budget Tips: After using your Oyster Card for a bus journey, any other bus journeys you take within 1 hour of touching your card the first time will be free .

London Tube Travel

In comparison to the bus, the tube is faster and easier for traveling long distances in the city.

Always check your journey on tfl.com to compare prices and travel times.

Every tube station has a city tube map, so you can easily plan your route when you visit London.

Bonus Budget Tips: The price of a tube journey increases as you leave Zone 1 (here a tube journey costs 2.50 pounds) . So try to stay within this area when traveling and then walk to your destination if it lies in Zone 2.

London Budget Travel Guide: Best Cheap and Free Things To Do

With endless things to do in London, here are some of my favorite London attractions that cost little to no money.

From free museums and parks to cheap viewpoints, this amazing city is actually great for saving money. If you want to visit London on a budget, put these activities on your itinerary!

Find more ideas with my list of 35 free things to do in London !

Relax in Regent’s Park

Walking, napping, or having a picnic in a park is a necessity during nice weather in London.

Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, St. James’s Park, and Regent’s Park are some of my favorites.

All London parks are free to enter.

Though Hyde Park gets all the attention, Regent’s Park is just as beautiful and easier to navigate.

In spring and summer, there is a stunning rose garden in Regent’s Park.

• Location: Northwest of London center, has its own tube station.
• London Budget Travel Tip: At the very north end of the park, walk across the road and you’ll find Primrose Hill.  This is a great picnic spot and has a nice view of the London skyscrapers (and it’s free!).

For more London park recommendations, read: “10 Most Beautiful Parks in London, UK”

Visit the Free Museums

All of London’s museums are completely free , and all are definitely worth visiting.

The British Museum is maybe the most famous London museum, along with the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Imperial War Museum, the Tate Modern Art Museum, and the National Gallery which houses the National Portrait Gallery.

Take advantage of these free attractions and learn about London’s history, art, and culture.

But the Victoria and Albert Museum is my favorite. The design of the building is gorgeous, and it has a wide variety of art and history displays from other cultures.

• Location: Short walk from Kensington Tube Station .
• London Budget Travel Tip: Visit the cafe just to admire the beautifully decorated room, you don’t have to buy anything.

Explore Covent Garden

This little area of street markets, food stalls, unique shops, and wonderful restaurants is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The Covent Garden Piazza is an indoor market hall that usually has music performers and is full of quirky stores.

Visit both Twinings and East India Tea Company shops for free tea samples .

• Location: London center, has its own tube station.
• London Travel Tip: Just off of the street called Shorts Gardens is Neal’s Yard , a tiny square where the brightly colored buildings and flowers rival something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Attend the Theater

The variety, availability, and quality of shows in London are unbelievable.

Whether it be a huge professional theater in the West End  or a small local comedy show, never turn down an opportunity to dive into London’s entertainment scene.

Crowded areas like Leicester Square and its surrounding streets are full of box offices where you can purchase cheap tickets in the morning for a show that same night.

• Location: Theaters are all over London, but most of the best ones are concentrated in the West End.
• London Budget Travel Tip: If you are visiting London for a longer period of time, it’s worth signing up for the National Theater email list . On this website, you can find cheap discounted tickets for some of London’s most popular shows.

Explore Brick Lane

Full of crazy street art, vintage shops, and curry houses, Brick Lane showcases the artistic side and thriving immigrant culture of east London.

A whole afternoon can be spent browsing through bookstores, record stores, art stores, or whatever your heart desires.

Also on Sunday mornings, take a short walk northeast from Brick Lane to visit the beautiful Columbia Lane Flower Market .

Definitely stop by here when you visit London!

• Location: East London
• London Travel Tip: On Sundays, Brick Lane  fills with outdoor food vendors and carts selling antiques and vintage apparel.

Famous London Tourist Attractions

Of course, when you visit London you have to see all the famous stuff. Many London attractions are world-famous and absolutely worth a visit.

Here are the most popular tourist attractions you need to see in London:

• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• Tower of London
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Trafalgar Square
• Buckingham Palace
• Tower Bridge

All of these places are famous for a reason, so definitely check them out!

London Budget Travel Tip: If you are on a tight budget, you can just admire these masterpieces from the outside without paying for a guided tour or entry fee.

If you do plan on paying to enter any of these London attractions, I recommend booking your ticket in advance on Get Your Guide . You can often skip the long lines if you book in advance, which gives you more free time to explore London!

Also, the one thing I’ve always wanted to do in London, but still haven’t had the chance to, is a Harry Potter Studios Tour .

Many fellow Harry Potter fanatics have said it is an amazing experience! You can book your tour here. 

London Budget Travel Guide: Cheap or Free Viewpoints

In my opinion, every budget travel guide needs a section on viewpoints. Who doesn’t love great lookouts over a city??

Luckily, there are some cheap and even free viewpoints so you can admire London on a budget!

Rather than pay for a ride on the expensive London Eye, visit one of these unique spots when you visit London.

Top Floor of the Tate Modern Art Museum

• Location: On the South Bank right in front of the River Thames. Viewpoint is on the top floor! Cost: The entire Tate Modern Museum and the top floor cafe/lookout point is free . So you might as well check out some of the art in addition to enjoying the view.
• Location: Top Floor of the Walkie Talkie Skyscraper (Also known as 20 Fenchurch Street)
• Cost: Free to enter, but you have to book your time slot online in advance.

Climb The Monument

• Location: Short walk from Monument Tube Station
• Cost: 4.50 pounds, or 3 pounds with a student card

Iconic Public Squares

London has lots of famous public squares that are free to visit. They are lined with shops and cafes that do cost money, but you can observe the hustle and bustle of the squares and take photos for no money at all.

Be sure to visit:

• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Sqaure

London Budget Travel Tip: My favorite view in all of London is crossing the Waterloo Bridge at night.

On one side you can see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, and the Jubilee Bridge.

The other side shows St. Paul’s Cathedral, The South Bank, Blackfriars Bridge, Tower Bridge, and the distant skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

Everything in sight is lit up in different colors and it is absolutely magical. I always stop by here when I visit London. ALSO, IT IS FREE! 🙂

London Budget Travel Guide: Best Cheap Food and Drinks

Here are some affordable places to eat and drink when you visit London on a budget.

Street Markets

My favorite places to eat in London are hands down, the street markets. With a diverse array of artisan food stalls and prices that are much cheaper than restaurants, you really can’t go wrong!

Sticking to street food is the cheapest way to eat in London on a budget!

Borough Market is my absolute favorite, located near the Shard on the south bank of the River Thames.

Portobello Road Market and Maltby Street Market are also amazing. But there are so many more amazing London food markets to check out for cheap eats.

Other than street markets, here are my other favorite cheap places to eat in London!

Gordon’s Wine and Cheese Bar

• Location: Short walk from Embankment Tube Station
• Cost: For 6.50 pounds, you can choose one decent sized block of cheese with bread and various jams and chutneys.
• London Travel Tip: Try to visit on a weekday afternoon, as the building is tiny and fills up quickly. You most likely won’t find anywhere to sit at all on a weekend or in the evening.

Sourdough Pizza from Franco Manca

• Location : various locations throughout London
• Cost: A basic sourdough pizza with tomato, garlic, and oregano is about 5 pounds. Adding any toppings are worth the extra cost (wild mushrooms are the best).

Planet Organic

• Location: Various locations in central London
• Cost: Some items in the grocery section are expensive. But the hot food counter offers decent sized salad bowls for 5 pounds.
• London Budget Travel Tip: If you take the time to really browse through the grocery section, you can find some amazing health foods for cheap prices. You can find everything from vegan desserts, to green juices, to sprouted breads, to interesting cereals.

Pret A Manger

• Location: ALL OVER THE PLACE
• Cost: Very affordable and convenient food for eat out or take away. A good-sized salad bowl costs between 4-5 pounds. Healthy sandwiches cost between 2-4 pounds. This is my go-to for eating in London on a budget.
• London Budget Travel Tip: There is a Pret A Manger in most London airports, so buy your travel meals here for something cheap, healthy, and delicious. Also, sometimes the eat-in prices are more expensive than take-away prices, so keep that in mind.

Afternoon Tea

As an important aspect of English culture, many travelers like to experience a traditional teatime. London is full of places to indulge in this mid-afternoon treat.

Every place offers basically the same supply of tea, finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and desserts.

Visit A Classic London Pub

The pub culture in London, and all of the UK is very important to the daily lives of locals. It’s where people come to eat, drink, watch football, catch up with mates, and relax.

To eat a traditional English meal, sip on a pint of local beer, and soak in the English atmosphere, you have to visit a pub.

I won’t recommend any specific ones because there are great pubs on almost every single street in London.

Wander into any one of them and you’ll have a great time.

Thanks for reading about ways to visit London on a budget!

From Hyde Park and Regent’s Park to the British Museum, V&A Museum, and other free attractions, London actually has lots of affordable things to do.

And if you stick to the cheap eats like Borough Market and follow these money saving tips, you can easily visit London cheaply.

You can also see London icons like Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and more on a budget!

Cheap Travel Insurance for London

Before traveling to the UK, consider getting travel insurance. The UK is a very safe place to travel, so you probably won’t need to worry about many dangerous or crazy travel issues.

But for those who always buy travel insurance and feel more comfortable with it, definitely go for it.

I recommend Squaremouth Insurance ! They have affordable travel insurance plans and a helpful live chat for asking questions.

More Budget Travel Guides for Europe

If London is wedged into your grand European travel adventure, check out Travel Hacks For Europe to help you plan and budget the rest of your trip.

For some more inspiration about where to travel in Europe on a budget, check out these articles:

Transylvania, Romania: The Ultimate Budget Travel Guide

9 Budget Travel Tips for Spain

The Ultimate Budget Travel Guide To Budapest, Hungary

6 Things To Do In Berlin, Germany On A Budget

Budget Travel Guide To Copenhagen, Denmark

How To See Kotor, Montenegro On A Budget

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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7 thoughts on “ London Budget Travel Guide: How To Enjoy London On A Budget ”

Thanks for this! Super helpful for planning my next trip!

I’m so happy to hear that! Enjoy your next trip to London 🙂

Fantastic guide! Your tips make exploring London on a budget seem both accessible and exciting. Thanks for sharing.

I’m so happy to hear that, thanks for reading!

I’m planning to visit London for the first time this spring! These are super helpful tips! Is an Oyster necessary to take public transit? I’ll only be in London for 3 days.

That’s awesome, enjoy!! Based on the TFL website, it looks like you can just tap on and off public transport with any contactless card or device. I wouldn’t recommend buying single trip tickets though because that’s more expensive than than using cards. Find more info here! https://tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/visiting-london/getting-around-london/best-ways-for-visitors-to-pay

Wow thank you so much!

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13 Secrets To Traveling On A Budget In London

London is a popular destination among city lovers.

It’s easy to fall in love with this bustling, cosmopolitan city.

Not only is it packed with historic sites and cultural centers, but London also boasts a dynamic food scene and a thriving nightlife. In fact, London can be pretty addictive – the more you see of it, the more you’ll want to go back.

But there’s just one problem; London is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Europe.

The good news:

There are many ways you can explore London on a budget if you plan your trip carefully.

I asked 13 travel bloggers and London fans to share their little-known tips for experiencing budget-friendly London, and I’ve compiled their suggestions into this England travel guide .

Pro tip: Get out and explore! To help, here is a 5-day England itinerary from London to Carlisle by train that won’t break the bank! Moreover, here are 26 hotels with private hot tubs in the UK , many of which are budget-friendly and can truly make your trip to Europe more fun!

Table of Contents

1) Opt For The City’s Bike-Sharing Program

“My top tip for travelling on a budget in London would be to ditch the tube or the taxi and instead opt for something cheaper like the bus! Not only do you get to see London as you travel but you also travel super cheap. Or if you’d like to travel even cheaper then jump on one of the thousands of Santander bikes that are dotted around the city from London Bridge to Covent Garden and bike around London to see the sights! Santander Cycles is London’s self-service, bike-sharing scheme and you can hire a bike from as little as £2.”

– Sophie Davis from Sophie’s Suitcase  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

2) Take Advantage Of The Pre-Theater Set Menus At The West End Restaurants

“Exploring London’s West End can be a pricey experience.  You might be looking for a nice meal on a budget or perhaps a bite to eat before (or after) a trip to the theater.  Either way, between food, service charges and theater tickets you can be looking at a really expensive night out.

Consider dining at one of many restaurants in TheatreLand (the area around the West End) and take advantage of the pre-theater set menus on offer.  Most restaurants have these menus available at specific time slots and you don’t HAVE to go to the theater after.  If you want to sightsee you can grab a quick two or three course meal for usually less than £20, sometimes including wine!

Some venues are popular and require a reservation to ensure you get a table, but at many you can arrive and be seated almost instantly.  It really depends on the day and the time of year.”

– Roma Small from Roaming Required  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

3) Go Up To The Sky Garden

“Not many tourists know that you can climb to the top of a sky scraper in the City of London and admire the panoramic views over the English capital, for free. The City of London is usually avoided by the tourists, thinking that this is just a financial district. It is, however, the home of some of the most amazing roof top bars in town.

In order to get to the Sky Garden you have to make an online booking (at least 2 weeks before, even more in summer) and choose your desired time slot. No worries, it is free. I suggest researching when the sunset is and go then, if the sky is clear you will be in for a feast. You can spend as much time as you want once you are inside and you can even have a drink at one of the bars or enjoy a concert up there. The entire rooftop of the building is transformed into a tropical garden so expect it to be quite hot.”

– Joanna Davis from The World In My Pocket  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

Editor’s note: The Sky Garden is a top pick on our list of things to do alone in London if you’re traveling solo!

4) Check Out The Free Museums

“Want to see Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet paintings up close? For FREE?

Yes, London has over 20 FREE museums to visit. See Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci’s works at the National Gallery, or stroll through Tate Modern, a former power plant, which showcases modern artists such as Picasso, Dal í , and Warhol. You can also explore world history through amazing artifacts, like the Rosetta Stone, at the British Museum.”

– John Graham from Johnny Worldwide

By the way, these museums are great whether you’re traveling solo, visiting in a group, or exploring London with kids .

5) Wander The Stalls At Camden Market

“In London, you don’t need to spend anything on entertainment to enjoy yourself for days. Go to the markets, especially the Camden Market. You can wander the stalls and take in the bustle of the city. The markets make for some of the best people watching in London. Afterwards, head to one of the fantastic and free museums, like the Tate Modern or British Museum, watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, and enjoy the amazing public parks like Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park.”

– Stephanie Craig from History FanGirl  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

6) Stay In Student Dorms And Head To Covent Garden And Soho For Cheap Drinks

“It’s no secret that London is an expensive place to go for a drink but there is a way to enjoy a cocktail or two without breaking the bank. You’ll be hard pressed to beat the price of Weatherspoon pubs, which can be found all over the city, but if you’re looking for something a little fancier, a lot of great bars offer great happy hour deals. Head to the Earlham Street Clubhouse in Covent Garden between Monday and Saturday from 5-7pm to enjoy £5 cocktails, something practically unheard of in the city centre. If you’re looking to branch out into some of the more trendy boroughs then Venn Street Record in Clapham and Rum Kitchen in SoHo have similar offers to go alongside their young, laid back vibes.

Accommodation can be notoriously expensive in London, even for a bed in a shared dorm, so it can be best to think a little unconventionally. Kings College London rents out its student accommodation over the summer months (July to September usually), allowing you a lot more privacy that a dorm whilst retaining the community feel of a hostel. They have buildings all over the city so it might be worth a look.”

– Katie Ackerley from Real World Runaway  ( Twitter  &  Instagram )

7) Eat At The City’s Street Food Markets

“If you’re visiting London, but don’t want to break the bank, here’s a great tip to save those pennies. After a long day of sightseeing, you’ll probably want to refuel with some delicious food, so head to one of London’s many food markets for some tasty treats that won’t make a huge dent in your wallet. There are many food markets to choose from around London, including Borough Market by London Bridge, Greenwich Market , or one of the many street food markets in Shoreditch, such as BOXPARK . The best thing about these markets is that you can take your pick from any number of cuisines from up-and-coming culinary talents at affordable prices.”

– Julianna Barnaby from The Discoveries Of  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

8) Wait Until The Last Minute When Booking Theater Tickets

“When I booked a month-long stay in London as part of my RTW trip, I didn’t even consider trying to see a play on the West End. That must cost an arm and a leg right? But after a couple weeks passing ads on the Underground, I decided to check show times online at Londontheatre.co.uk and lo and behold! There were seats at Wicked that night for 17.50 pounds. On arrival, I found out that price even included a glass of prosecco! And I didn’t feel I had a bad view despite being in one of the last rows. If you’re a solo traveler interested in London theater, wing it!”

– Danielle Bricker from World Smith  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

9) Rent A Private Room In Canary Wharf

“Accommodation in London can be very pricey, especially during the summer time or pretty much always during the weekends. Instead of booking a hotel, try to find a private room in a shared flat, on Airbnb, for example. For as low as 40-50 pounds a night (for 2-3 people) you can live in a neat flat in the city centre (within the zones 1-2). Canary Wharf is a great district that has tons of modern flats in great condition close to various tube stations. And if you’re traveling with kids, Airbnbs offer some of the best family-friendly accommodation in London that can also help you save a ton!”

– Liza from Tripsget Travel Blog  ( Facebook  &  Instagram )

10) Take The Bus Instead Of The Tube

“London is famed both for the Tube (its underground railway system) and its red double-decker buses. Given the choice, I’d go with the city buses any day! For one, the buses are a lot cheaper. A single bus fare costs £1.50 for adults, while a Tube ride costs at least £2.40 per ride. The price for a Tube ride goes up depending on how far you’re going and whether or not you are using an Oyster card. Furthermore, any bus transfers within the hour are free, and there’s a daily cap to your fare of £4.50.

The best part is, you’re actually traveling above ground unlike with the Tube, and the views are exceptionally good from the upper deck of the bus. You’re getting where you need to be for cheap and getting a free city tour out of it… a win-win!”

– Tendelle Sheu from Travel A La Tendelle  ( Instagram )

11) Experience ‘Alternative’ London

“You know what they say, always ask a local. Alternative London is a social enterprise created to put London’s underground art scene on display guided by those that know it best — the artists. The first “pay-as-you wish” company to offer tours, they also offer bike tours, brewery tours, food tours, and workshops for a nominal fee. Along the East End route, you’ll be introduced to works by Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader, and many other up-and-coming street artists. The area is a thriving hub that fosters creativity outside the confines of a traditional museum. The tours are a must-see to get acquainted with London’s cultural scene.”

– Lauren Monitz from The Down Lo  ( Instagram  and Twitter )

12) Go On A Free Walking Tour

“The most wonderful thing about London is that a large part of it is walkable. Since there are so many travelers coming through the city every day, there are also many, many options for free walking tours that are funded on tips! The one I went on was 3 hours (pretty standard length) and covered the East side of London – including Buckingham Palace, Prince Harry’s House, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben!

You can find the best ones online, through TripAdvisor or Google, or search through the maps and brochures that your hostel provides! Many tour companies will distribute free materials like maps to get the word out about their tours.”

– Alice Chen from Wherever I Want  ( Instagram  and Facebook )

13) Explore The City’s Amazing Parks

“London has many beautiful parks that you can visit for free and they are all unique for different reasons. If you like bird watching I highly recommend Regent’s Park, which is home to many bird species. You can spot Mandarin ducks, herons, parrots, jays and black swans, just to mention a few. From there you can make your way to Primrose Hill which will give you a great view of the city centre and the London Zoo. Don’t forget your kite at home if you have one as you can hardly find a better place to fly it!

Hampstead Heath is great for the more adventurous type. It is wilder, has woods, which is perfect to hang a hammock. On a hot day you can even go for a swim in one of the ponds. Richmond Park and Bushy park are both great for spotting deer and climbing trees.”

– Enikő Krix from Travel Hacker Girl  ( Instagram )

What are your tips for traveling to London on a budget? Please share in the comments below!

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10 Comments

This is a great roundup! Love some of these tips and excited to use them!

Your 13 secrets are wonderful and very useful at the very same time.. Would surely use your travel tips while travelling.

That’s an amazing useful list! Next time when I go to London, I’m heading to Canary Wharf and the Sky garden! Thank you!

We loooooooove London! The Sky Garden is the most amazing FREE thing to do!

Need to take one of the tours next time. And yes, you can travel London on a budget. So many free museums!

@Neni: And good ones, too! 🙂

London’s food markets are the best! A nice way to experience the city.

I love London. Your tips are great for exploring more. I would love to see Sky gardens one day.

I loved reading your blog, it is so well written, please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.

Great tips for budget travelers in London! To add to these secrets, consider Mowbray Court Hotel for an affordable and comfortable stay in London. Your wallet will thank you!

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28+ Cheap Things to Do in London (Under $15)

L ondon may have a reputation for being an expensive city to visit, but in fact, there are plenty of cheap things to do in London, as well as a multitude of things to do in London for free.

George Orwell once famously wrote that “one of the worst things about London (is) the fact that it costs money even to sit down,” but that is simply not the case anymore, as there are so many cheap things to do in London. Keep reading below for all our best recommendations on free and cheap things to do in London while traveling on a budget!

This post was written by guest contributor Sarah from Slow Travel. Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Free Museums

When asked about the free and cheap things to do in London, most people will mention the free museums, which are definitely a highlight of the city — free or not!

These museums range from major tourist attractions, such as the British Museum and the Science Museum, to the countless smaller museums, which are also free but less well-known.

1. The British Museum

The British Museum is the most popular of the big museums in London, with millions of visitors flocking to see the Rosetta Stone, the Egyptian mummies, the controversial Parthenon marbles, and thousands of other artifacts from across the world.

Although the British Museum can get really crowded during the day, visiting on a late-night Friday opening means that it is much easier to get up close to some of these incredible objects and makes the whole experience a far more enjoyable one.

2. The Science Museum

The Science Museum takes you through innovations from across the centuries with five floors of space exploration, a James Watt engine, a Herschel telescope, early computers, and whole displays dedicated to science and technology.

Many exhibits have interactive features, making them ideal for those visiting London with children or families.

3. Smaller Museums

However, it’s in the lesser-known free museums in London where visitors can find some real surprises. Visitors can hold a real bar of gold at the excellent Bank of England Museum , watch a light show in an underground Roman Temple at the London Mithraeu , or explore the golden Inner Temple of Freemasons in the Museum of Freemasonry — all for free.

Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archeology is also a wonderful place to explore, filled with thousands of ancient Egyptian artifacts cobbled together on dusty shelves, and the British Library has rooms filled with some of the oldest and greatest works in British literature, making it one of the best literary spots in London !

Free Art Galleries

Exploring the numerous art galleries in London is one of the best things to do in London for cheap (or for free!) — whether you’re an art lover or not.

4. The National Gallery

London has some of the finest art galleries in the world, of which The National Gallery is the crown jewel! Home to works by Van Gogh, Monet, Turner, Da Vinci, Botticelli, Rembrandt, Titian, and more, The National Gallery is a fabulous place to spend hours just sitting, contemplating, and deciding which works are your favorites!

5. National Portrait Gallery

Right behind The National Gallery is the newly opened National Portrait Gallery , where there are galleries filled with famous British faces such as Queen Elizabeth I, Shakespeare, the Bronte Sisters, Mary Seacole, and Churchill.

6. Tate Modern

If modern art is a preference, then the enormous Tate Modern on the banks of the River Thames is perfect. Although there is a charge for some of the smaller, changing exhibitions, there is free access to most of the museum, which is home to some truly surreal and thought-provoking art, as well as a viewing gallery that has wonderful views over the capital.

7. Tate Britain

Tate Britain is another large, free art gallery, but has a combination of traditional and modern art, making it ideal for those who like a bit of both genres. Rosetti, Millais, Turner, and Spencer combine with some outlandish sculptures and designs in a neo-Classic listed building.

Royal Heritage Sites

No visit to London is complete without seeing some of the royal heritage that dominates the city!

8. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Although visiting one of the palaces is not cheap, you can still watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace for free.

There is no need to join one of the many tours — it is just a case of getting to the railings in good time and staking a claim to a space from which to watch it. Mounted royal guards can also be seen at Horseguards Parade, just down the road from Downing Street, and are happy to be included in photos so long as you don’t touch their horses.

9. Traitor’s Gate

Traitor’s Gate at the Tower of London is another one of the best things to do in London for cheap. This is where many Tudor royals saw their last glimpse of the outside world before being transported into the Tower of London by boat to await their executions.

Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I, Lady Jane Grey, and more all made their final journey through this dramatic-looking, ancient portcullis.

9. Ceremony of the Keys

It’s also possible to get into the Tower of London for about $6 by booking to see the Ceremony of the Keys — one of the best cheap things to do in London!

This ancient ritual has been performed every night for the past 600 years, and visitors can watch as the King’s Guards lock down the Tower in full Tudor regalia, complete with a rendition of the Last Post. Tickets must be bought in advance from the Royal Collection Trust .

Cathedrals, Churches & Cemeteries

London is home to some extraordinary cathedrals, abbeys, and churches — many of which you can visit for free (or for cheap!).

10. St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey

Although some cathedrals, including St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey , charge visitors quite a lot of money to explore inside their hallowed walls — there is no charge to attend one of their services.

Evensong is a particularly good service as it is at the end of the day and lasts for less than an hour. Although most of the buildings are closed for sightseeing and photography is not allowed during this time, it is still a great chance to see inside these magnificent buildings for free!

11. Smaller Churches

London has about 2,000 smaller churches and religious buildings, and they are all open for free. Many have small museums in their crypts, and it is possible to spend hours at a time in some of the best ones.

St. Bride’s Church on Fleet Street and All Hallows by the Tower are well worth an extended visit and are some of the best churches to visit in London for free.

12. The Magnificent Seven Cemeteries

The cemeteries of London are a fantastic place to spend time, particularly those known as “ The Magnificent Seven ” — Abney Park Cemetery, Brompton Cemetery, Highgate Cemetery, Kensal Green Cemetery, Nunhead Cemetery, Tower Hamlets Cemetery and West Norwood Cemetery.

Highgate Cemetery is perhaps the most famous of them all, where graves and vegetation jostle for supremacy in this truly unique overgrown space. Although it costs just over $12 to visit, visiting this cemetery is one of the best cheap things to do in London, as it’s easy to spend a whole day wandering amongst the graves, spotting famous names, which include Karl Marx, George Michael, Douglas Adams, Malcolm McLaren, and many more.

The catacombs on Egyptian Avenue in Highgate Cemetery are amazing pieces of architecture and, once visited, will never be forgotten. Other cemeteries and graveyards across the city are free to visit and have some equally famous burials and fascinating sights to see.

Spectacular City Views

London is a sprawling city that extends as far as the eye can see. Naturally, many visitors want to see the incredible views from above! People pay about $38 to visit the top of the Shard for those views — but there are other places to get similar sights.

13. Sky Garden

Sky Garden — London’s highest public garden — is one of the best places to enjoy incredible views of the city for much cheaper than the Shard. Although the “garden” part of its name is something of a misnomer, this building has some fantastic views over the city for free — just be sure to book tickets in advance!

14. More Free Views

Just outside the Greenwich Observatory, there are some wonderful open views over the skyscrapers of the business district in Canary Wharf. The benches on Parliament Hill — part of Hampstead Heath — also provide the perfect place to enjoy the views from the comfort of a more rural setting.

Sunset River Cruises

River cruises are much touted by tour companies keen to sell a trip down the River Thames at great expense. They often include food and drinks and even sunset views to entice people in. It is possible, however, to book your own cruise down the River Thames at a fraction of the cost. 

16. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is a fabulous (and cheap!) way to travel up and down the Thames River for cheap. You can book a sunset cruise for only £10 (or just about $12) with comfortable seating, a snack bar that serves food and drinks, and all the amenities you need.

Getting on one of these boats — much the way you would any form of public transport, like the tube — and sailing from west to east provides a luxurious boat ride. Plus, if you time it right, the setting sun will fall between the bastions of Tower Bridge as you approach, which is a truly spectacular sight. Try an evening trip from Greenwich to Tower Millennium for the best views!

Beautiful Parks & Green Spaces

Known as one of the greenest capital cities in the world — London has countless parks and gardens that are completely free to visit.

17. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is perhaps the largest and most famous of the public parks in London. In addition to the assorted monuments, flower gardens, and sports courts in the park, visitors can hire a small rowing boat to ride out onto Serpentine Lake for minimal cost.

There are also free art galleries and exhibition spaces in the middle of Hyde Park, some large playgrounds (including one for seniors!), and — most entertaining of all — Speaker’s Corner. There is a centuries-old London tradition of people being able to speak on any subject matter in Speaker’s Corner. This tradition dates back to when the park was next to Tyburn, an area where thousands of people were hanged for all manner of crimes.

18. More Free Parks

Other parks in London to visit for free include Richmond Park , Hampstead Heath , Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill , and a host of others. They all have free activities and events happening throughout the year — all of which can be found on their websites.

Bustling Markets

London is home to many famous markets which span the city and sell a huge range of goods. There is no need to spend any money or join an organized trip — exploring these markets on your own time will cost nothing (unless temptation strikes!).

19. Borough Market

Borough Market , which dates back to the 12th century, is located underneath railway lines in a huge Victorian structure of glass and wrought iron.

Borough Market is the oldest food market in London and now sells food from around the world, with sumptuous displays of fresh and exotic fruits, cheeses, breads, meats, and countless food stalls serving street food from across the globe.

20. Portobello Road Market

Portobello Road Market , located in Notting Hill, is the place to go for collectibles, vintage knick-knacks, jewelry, and ornaments — as well as to explore the famous streets and mews that are featured in this part of the city.

21. Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market is the place to go for art, antiques, and vintage goods. Since it’s an indoor market, it is also ideal to explore on one of London’s (not unusual) rainy days.

22. Convent Garden Market

Covent Garden Market is popular with all visitors. Though it was once famous for its fruit and vegetables, the market now also includes clothes, gifts, and hand-crafted goods and usually has street entertainers to keep the crowds amused (entirely for free!).

Colorful Street Art & Graffiti

Street art is another aspect of London that attracts many visitors, with its colorful designs lighting up dark and neglected corners.

23. Banksy Tunnel

Underneath Waterloo train station is the Banksy Tunnel. Banksy Tunnel was named in 2008 after Banksy held a graffiti festival in this once dingy tunnel where buses had been stored.

Since then, it has become a mecca for some of the best graffiti artists around and is now the only place in London where they are allowed to work without a permit. The entire tunnel, including the ceilings, is covered in street art, with the designs changing daily and sometimes in front of your eyes.

24. Brick Lane

Brick Lane is another great place for some serious street art. Although it is not technically permitted, that hasn’t seemed to stop the graffiti artists, and the designs cover the already quirky street. The overall effect is an overwhelming mishmash of bright colors, skillful art, and unique shops and businesses.

Leisurely Walking

Walking is an underrated activity in London, which is crisscrossed with countless walking routes, including the Thames Path, Jubilee Walkway, Jubilee Greenway, and London Loop. The routes, which are marked with symbols on the pavements, cover the whole of London’s landscapes, including riverside, urban, and rural areas.

25. Southbank

Southbank — alongside the Thames River — is the perfect place for a stroll on a warm day. It’s easy to see why so many people love strolling in Southbank, with the beautiful views over the city, food stalls, a famous second-hand book market, and musicians and street entertainers who attract large crowds with their family-friendly fun.

26. Chinatown

Chinatown is another place for a fascinating walk. Chinatown is beautifully decorated with Chinese lanterns and is located right in the heart of the theatre district. This area is filled with an endless stream of people — and it is the perfect spot for some people watching. 

27. Guided Walking Tours

Free Tours by Foot is an awesome company that does free walking tours in London. Westminster, the Royals, Jack the Ripper, Harry Potter, and World War II are just a few of the subjects they’ll cover during the tour. These guided tours can last a couple of hours or nearly a whole day, and there is no cost — making them one of the best cheap things to do in London!

28. Self-Guided Walking Tours

However, the best way to explore London is to “follow your feet” and see where they take you! Spend some time exploring the hidden alleyways, small parks, and quiet residential roads. London’s city center is very safe, and a walk through it can be very rewarding, with cool sights and buildings surprising you around each corner.

FAQs: Cheap Things to Do in London on a Budget

What are some free things to do in london.

Some of the best free things to do in London include watching the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace, walking around Hyde Park, free walking tours, and visiting popular museums and art galleries, including the British Museum, the Science Museum, The National Gallery, and Tate Modern.

What is famous and cheap in London?

Some of the best famous attractions to visit in London for cheap include Hyde Park, Borough Market, Highgate Cemetery, the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

How can I save money on London attractions?

In addition to making your way through this list of free and cheap things to do in London, look into bundling attractions with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass .

With the Go City All-Inclusive London Pass , you will pay a one-time fee (£89–199) for a pass to visit as many attractions as you can during a selected timeframe (2–10 days). Attractions include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kensington Palace, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour, and 90+ more.

By bundling, you can see more and spend less — in fact, you can save up to 50% on top attractions, tours, and activities. Go City is a great tip for traveling to London for cheap if you still want to see the major attractions and sites.

Experience the Best of London on a Budget with These Cheap Things to Do in London

This is just a small selection of all the free and cheap things to do in London! 

As you can see, it’s perfectly possible to have a fun-filled stay in London while only paying for your flight, accommodations, and food. If you know where to look — there are tons of cheap things to do in London that make traveling on a budget a breeze!

Save the Best Cheap Things to Do in London for Later

Planning a trip to Europe? If so, check out some of these other fabulous destination guides for inspiration:

• What I Wish I Had Known Before Traveling to Paris
• 7 Delectable Food and Drinks to Try in Cinque Terre
• Detailed One-Day Itinerary for Copenhagen

Travel in London on a Budget: Top 15 Cheap Travel Tips

Home » Travel in London on a Budget: Top 15 Cheap Travel Tips

London is one of the world’s most exciting cities, with a wealth of history, culture, entertainment, and attractions. But if you’re on a budget, it can be difficult to find ways to enjoy all that London has to offer without breaking the bank. Don’t despair! With our top 15 cheap travel tips, you can explore the city and save money at the same time. 

From free museums and galleries to discount cards and budget-friendly restaurants, we’ll show you how to make the most of your trip to London on a budget.

✅ Make sure you’ll see the entire collection in Framey App , including addresses, opening hours, and contact information!

Table of Contents

1) Save on Flights – Travel in London on a Budget

Save on Flights

Traveling to London doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to save on flights when you book in advance. By planning, you can find cheap tickets and avoid costly last-minute changes. To get the best deal, look for budget airlines, research special offers, and loyalty programs, compare different flights and prices, and consider buying a round-trip ticket rather than a one-way. You can also fly mid-week, as this is usually the cheapest time to fly. Additionally, make sure to sign up for email notifications from your preferred airlines, as they often offer discounts and other special deals. With these tips in mind, you can find great bargains on flights and get to London on a budget.

2) Stay in Hostels or Use Airbnb

Stay in Hostels or Use Airbnb

Are you looking for an affordable way to travel to London? Hostels and Airbnb are great options for budget-minded travelers. Hostels are typically cheaper than hotels and offer a variety of accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Many hostels include amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and even a common area to hang out and meet other travelers. For even more savings, look for hostels that offer free city tours and discounts on attractions. 

Airbnb is another great option for those looking for budget accommodation in London. Not only does Airbnb offer a variety of room types, from private rooms to entire homes, but they also offer great discounts and deals on longer stays. With Airbnb, you can often find accommodations that include all the comforts of home such as kitchens, private bathrooms, and plenty of space to relax. So whether you’re looking for a hostel or Airbnb, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options available in London.

3) Get an Oyster Card – Travel in London on a Budget

Oyster Card

If you’re looking to travel in London on a budget, then you should get an Oyster Card. An Oyster Card is a rechargeable travel card that can be used on London’s public transportation system, such as the Tube, buses, trams, DLR, and National Rail services. This card can help you save money on your travels and make getting around London much easier. The Oyster Card also offers discounts and daily fare capping, meaning that after a certain amount of money has been spent, the rest of your travel for the day is free. With an Oyster Card, you can easily save money and make the most of your travels in London without breaking the bank.

4) Use Public Transportation

Use Public Transportation

When traveling in London, using public transportation can be an economical way to get around the city. By using public transportation, you can avoid costly taxi fares and save money on your overall travel costs. The London Underground is the most popular form of public transportation in the city and it provides a reliable, efficient service with stations throughout London. Additionally, the Overground and National Rail networks are also available for those wishing to travel outside of London. When using public transport, make sure to purchase an Oyster Card to receive discounts on your trips. With an Oyster Card, you will be able to benefit from discounted fares and explore London on a budget.

5) Eat at Local Restaurants – Travel in London on a Budget

Are you looking to save money while traveling in London? Eating at local restaurants is one of the best ways to do just that. Local restaurants not only offer delicious and unique cuisine but also provide an immersive cultural experience. Dining out can be pricey, so here are a few tips to help you save money when eating out in London:

• Look for lunch specials – Most restaurants offer lunch specials at lower prices than dinner entrees.
• Visit eateries off the beaten path – Tourist traps are notorious for charging higher prices. Seek out small, local eateries for authentic, reasonably-priced meals.
• Try street food vendors – These vendors offer delicious and inexpensive dishes.
• Order tap water – Many restaurants will charge you for bottled water. Ask for tap water to save money.
• Split dishes – Share an entrée with a friend or family member to save on the cost of meals. 

These tips will help you enjoy the culinary delights of London while sticking to a budget. Eating at local restaurants is a great way to get a taste of authentic British cuisine while saving money in the process!

6) Visit Free Attractions

Visit Free Attractions

If you’re looking to save money while exploring London, visiting free attractions is a great way to do so! London offers an abundance of incredible free attractions, from the Tate Modern Gallery to St. James Park, that can be enjoyed without spending a penny. The Tate Modern Gallery is one of the world’s most renowned modern art galleries, offering some of the best free exhibitions in the city. Other free attractions in London include the Victoria & Albert Museum, National Gallery, and Science Museum. St. James Park is also a must-visit if you’re looking for some peaceful green spaces while you explore London on a budget. All these attractions are sure to make your stay in London both enjoyable and affordable. So don’t miss out on exploring some of the best free attractions in the city when you’re looking to travel in London on a budget!

7) Take Advantage of Student Discounts – Travel in London on a Budget

Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Shopping at local markets is a great way to explore a new city while saving money. London has several vibrant markets that offer unique items and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, organic produce, or handmade goods, you’ll find something special at London’s markets. Markets like Borough Market, Camden Lock Market, and Brick Lane Market are some of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Each market has its selection of items and food stalls, so make sure to research beforehand to see which ones offer the best deals. And don’t forget to bring cash, as most vendors only accept cash payments. Shopping at local markets in London is a great way to save money and still get a taste of the city.

8) Go During Off-Season

Visiting London during the off-season can be an excellent way to save on your trip. Off-season travel is typically cheaper, and you’ll find fewer crowds and long lines at popular attractions. If you plan your trip during the winter months, you can take advantage of discounted hotel rates and enjoy more budget-friendly activities. Make sure to research the best time to visit London for your desired activities and budget. You can also find great deals on flights if you book in advance. By taking advantage of off-season travel, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in London without breaking the bank.

9) Shop at Local Markets – Travel in London on a Budget

Shop at Local Markets

When traveling in London, you can save money by shopping at the local markets. From farm-fresh produce to artisanal crafts and vintage finds, you’ll find great bargains at London’s street markets. Borough Market is a popular spot for fresh food, as well as clothing and gifts. Other markets include Broadway Market, Greenwich Market, and Portobello Road. You can also find great deals on souvenirs, unique antiques, and secondhand clothes. When shopping at London’s local markets, remember to bargain and compare prices between vendors. By spending a few extra minutes searching around, you can get the best deal possible while exploring the culture of the city.

10) Use Coupons

Use Coupons

If you’re looking to save money while traveling in London, be sure to take advantage of coupons and discounts. You can find a range of discounts and deals online and in local newspapers. Coupons can be used for anything from transportation and accommodations to attractions and food. It’s easy to save money on your London trip when you use coupons. Look out for special offers, vouchers, and discount codes online or even download apps that will show you the best coupons and deals available. Keep an eye out for discounts that require you to register online in advance – these often offer the best savings!

11) Drink Tap Water – Travel in London on a Budget

Drink Tap Water

When traveling in London on a budget, one of the best ways to save money is to drink tap water. This can be done by filling up reusable water bottles and taking them with you wherever you go. Not only will this help you to stay hydrated, but it will also reduce the amount of money you spend on bottled drinks. Tap water in London is safe to drink and it is free, so it is an excellent way to save some money while traveling. Additionally, by drinking tap water you are helping the environment by reducing your plastic waste. So the next time you are traveling in London, remember to fill up your reusable water bottle with tap water and take it with you everywhere!

12) Avoid Tourist Traps

Avoid Tourist Traps

If you’re visiting London on a budget, it’s important to avoid tourist traps that can quickly eat away at your funds. Some of the most common tourist traps to look out for in London include overpriced restaurants and souvenir shops. To save money while exploring the city, be sure to research local spots ahead of time so you know where to find the best deals. Additionally, opt for transportation that’s not tailored towards tourists – avoid taking cabs or hop-on-hop-off buses unless you need to. With a bit of planning and research, you’ll be able to enjoy London without breaking the bank!

13) Do Your Research – Travel in London on a Budget

Do Your Research

When it comes to traveling on a budget in London, researching your options beforehand is key. By doing some research and planning, you can save money on transportation, lodging, and activities. Look for deals on flights, hotels, and attractions online. Use online search tools to compare prices and find the best options. You can also find out about student discounts, coupons, and other money-saving tips. Additionally, read travel blogs or check out websites such as Time Out or Visit London for advice on how to get the most out of your stay in the city. Doing your research can help you save time and money, so be sure to take advantage of all the resources available to you!

14) Stay Connected

Stay Connected

The best part of any trip is getting to experience new cultures and have fun! London has so much to offer, from the bustling streets of the West End to the tranquil beauty of Hampstead Heath. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s something for everyone in London. So make sure to take advantage of all the city has to offer and enjoy yourself! There are plenty of ways to stay active and entertained while also staying on a budget. Check out free events and festivals in the area, explore the city’s many parks, museums, and galleries, or just take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and soak up the unique atmosphere. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to make some wonderful memories that will last a lifetime!

15) Enjoy Yourself! – Travel in London on a Budget

Enjoy Yourself!

No matter where you’re traveling in London, make sure to take time to enjoy yourself! There’s so much to explore, from historic landmarks and art galleries to bustling markets and vibrant nightlife. Make sure to take a break and truly appreciate all that London has to offer. Embrace the culture and don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences, it just means being a bit more conscious of how you spend your money. So get out there and enjoy London on a budget!

When it comes to traveling in London on a budget, there are plenty of ways to make your stay as enjoyable and affordable as possible. 

From finding the best deals on flights and accommodations to taking advantage of student discounts and local markets, there are some ways to save money while still having a great time. But no matter how much or how little you spend, make sure you take the time to enjoy yourself. 

After all, that’s why we travel! 

To make your travels even more memorable, be sure to check out  Framey App , the perfect way to share your holiday photos with friends and family and get inspired for your next trips!

10 Frequently Asked Questions about London, Answered

Free things to do in London: discover amazing places where you can enjoy the best trip of your life

Fun things to do in London – top 10 entertaining activities + tips on how to plan a great trip

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Visiting London on a Budget | A Travel-Savvy Guide

Being a savvy traveler, I’ve experienced visiting London on a budget on multiple occasions and here I’ll tell you how you can, too! With affordable accommodations, cheap eats, low-cost transportation, and free attractions and tours, you will be able to travel to London on a budget.  Just follow these money saving tips for visiting London on a budget to get the most out of your budget-savvy trip!

Visiting London on a Budget | Cheap Accommodations

Visiting London on a budget begins with finding an affordable place to stay. I like to use Booking.com to search for cheap hotels in London; I love how they show you exactly how much you’re saving.  You can also look on Airbnb and filter by cost to find affordable London accommodations with more of a home feel.

I’ve stayed in hostels in London , hotels, and Airbnbs over the years. Depending on your individual situation, each is a great option for traveling to London on a budget. While I’ve moved on from my hostel-staying days, I’ve found that some hotels (specifically micro hotels – see more about that below!) and Airbnbs can be just as budget-friendly!

If you are new to Airbnb, use my referral link for $40 off your first reservation of $75 or more!

Micro Hotels in London

On a recent trip to London, I saw that micro hotels in London are popping up throughout the city.  My husband and I stayed at a hub by Premier Inn micro hotel and loved it! It was modern, clean, and best of all, cheap! Yes, the rooms are small (hence the “micro” adjective), but they do a great job utilizing the space. My husband and I had everything we needed in our room including free wi-fi, luggage storage, a desk, and bathroom (no, these are not like hostels, where you may have to share a bathroom with others!). The best part was that the prices were fairly micro too! We paid £69/night which is a lot less than most bigger hotels and about equal to lower-end Airbnbs.

One of the best parts about the two primary chains of micro hotels in London, hub by Premium Inn and The Z Hotels, is that they have numerous locations conveniently located throughout the city. There are 11 hub by Premier Inn micro hotels conveniently located near Westminster Abbey, Tower Hill, and in areas like Soho and Convent Garden. The Z Hotels are located in popular tourist areas like Piccadilly , Soho and Convent Garden , just to name a few.

Eat in London on a Budget

It’s important to keep your dining costs low if you want to travel to London on a budget. Here are some of my savvy ways to eat in London on a budget:

• Stock up on snacks at a grocery store or market upon arrival. Being prepared for inevitable snack cravings by purchasing things like granola bars and fruit is one of the easiest ways to save money as a tourist in London. And have fun while saving by trying snacks you don’t usually see at home.
• Eat lunch at Borough Market , which is open every day but Sunday.  The massive market is home to both street food stalls and sit-down restaurants. 

• For the best fish & chips in all of London, be sure to stop by the Fish! Kitchen walk-up counter in Borough Market, where you can get their fresh, delicious, crunchy and buttery-soft version of the London staple to-go for £10. 

• Follow Time Out London’s best cheap eats guide , an all-inclusive guide to 100 different budget-friendly London restaurants!
• Grab dinner at your neighbhorhood pubs—it’s a much cheaper alternative than eating at a fancy restaurant. My favorite London pub for cheap eats is the The Pommelers Rest , near the London Tower Bridge. My husband and I stumbled across it after spending the afternoon on the Bermondsey Beer Mile . They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and the prices are some of the lowest we found at pubs in London. The huge menu offered pizza, burgers, salads, fish & chips, and other traditional English fare. And the food was great!

Visiting London on a Budget | Transportation

London airport transportation.

Sometimes the most stressful part about planning a trip is figuring out how to get from the airport to your hotel. No worries though, my London Airport Guide has you covered on the low-cost transportation options to get you from the different airports to your hotel.

London Underground Oyster Card

When it comes to getting around London, the most convenient and budget-friendly transportation method is the London Underground (aka “the Tube”). One of my favorite money saving tips for visiting London is to purchase an Oyster Card for tube rides upon arrival. You can buy them at all train and tube stations.

The Oyster cards can be loaded with credits to cover your travel throughout your trip.  There is a £5 refundable deposit on the standard Oyster card, which you get back when you turn in your card at the end of the trip, or you can purchase the visitor Oyster card that has a £5 non-fundable fee.  The cards are virtually the same, so I don’t recommend the visitor pass since the £5 fee is non-refundable.

Regardless of the card you buy, the fares are significantly cheaper when using the Oyster card when compared to purchasing single tickets (like, half the price!), and the best part is that any unused credits on your Oyster card can be refunded at the end of your trip! Just don’t forget to turn the card back in at the customer service counter at the train / tube station before you leave London!

Uber in London

Yes, ridesharing is available in London via the Uber app. Side note: for those who prefer Lyft, it’s not available outside of the US & Canada yet. Uber works the same way in London as it does in the US, and the same app can be used. While the app will charge passengers in GBP, as long as your credit card does not have any foreign transaction fees, the charge will easily convert to USD on your credit card statement.

My husband and I used Uber in London on several occasions when it didn’t make sense to take the Tube (like late at night or from Gatwick to central London after our flight arrived at 4:00 a.m. local time). We found it reliable and safe and recommend it as an alternative to traditional cabs as a way to save money in London as a tourist.

Note: In November 2019, Uber lost its license to operate in London but is appealing the decision and will continue to operate in the meantime.

Visiting London on a Budget | Free Things to Do

If you’re trying to save money in London as a tourist, you’re in luck. The cosmopolitan city offers an impressive range of free things to do. These are some of my favorite activities for visiting London on a budget:

SkyGarden View

To enjoy one of the best views in London, visit the free public SkyGarden located in the “Walkie-Talkie”-nicknamed skyscraper in the City of London.

Online reservations are highly recommended, as it’s very difficult to access the SkyGarden as a walk-in guest, especially later in the day. The online booking system opens up three weeks in advance, so be sure to reserve a spot early since there are a limited amount of reservations allowed per day.

Even if you miss out on booking a reservation, it’s worth getting to the SkyGarden bright and early as it’s much easier to get in as a walk-in guest between 7:00 – 10:00 am on weekdays and 8:00 – 11:00 am on weekends. This is what we did, because I failed at getting a reservation online, and we walked right in without having to wait in line!

Entrance is free to the permanent collections and galleries in London museums. While there are a couple dozen museums to explore throughout London, one of my favorites is the Tate Modern , located on the southern bank of the River Thames. This modern art museum is located in a former power station and is a great place to explore for a couple hours.  

The Tate Modern is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and stays open until 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Pro tip: if the weather is nice, grab a beer or glass of wine outside of the museum and sit on the grass to enjoy this great Southbank location.

Royal Parks

London has eight Royal Parks that are open daily and free to visit. Hyde Park is London’s largest and most famous park and is definitely worthy of a visit regardless of the time of year. There is a rose garden and outdoor concerts in the summer and fairground rides and ice-skating in the winter, making Hyde Park London’s version of Central Park!

St. James Park is another beautiful option to visit, especially since it located across from Buckingham Palace. If you are visiting London on a budget, you can easily walk through St. James Park from Buckingham Palace to other attractions like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to see London is by participating in a free walking tour. The most popular free London tours typically include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, but there is so much more to see and do. Strawberry Tours offer free walking tours of both the East and South sides of London, Soho, and even a ghost tour.

Depending on how much time you have, try to go on as many free walking tours as you can as a way to travel to London on a budget (and get a bonus workout in!).

Pro tip: While the tours are free, be sure to tip your tour guide! £10-20/person is standard depending on individual budget and experience with the tour guide.

Beatles Mania

Fans and tourists can go on their own free, self-guided tour of Beatles spots throughout London. While going to places like the headquarters of Paul McCartney’s music publishing company in Soho or the location of the their famous rooftop concert at 3 Sevile Row are for the die-hard fans, a visit to Abbey Road is a must for even the moderate Beatles fan. Visitors can go to London’s Abbey Road Crossing to re-create the iconic Beatles album cover and see the famous record studio where the Beatles recorded most of their music. 

Well, my money saving tips for visiting London post has come to an end. If you have any other suggestions for how to experience budget travel in London, be sure to leave a comment below. Until next time – cheers!

20 thoughts on “ Visiting London on a Budget | A Travel-Savvy Guide ”

Loved the information and helpful tips. Thanks for sharing.

No problem – thanks for reading!

I think I’m going back to London this fall, so definitely saving this one! Thanks for the great tips.

I am trying to go back this summer – hopefully you can make it there in the fall too!

Thanks for sharing this! Though I loved London when I had visited, it sure was pricey 🙂 Pinned & saved these tips for my next trip!!

Yes it can be expensive but between the decreased value of the GBP as a result of Brexit and all the free things there are to do, London can definitely be experienced on a budget.

Great list! My favorite free thing to do in London is to wander through the gorgeous old cemeteries- Brompton Cemetery is my favorite.

Great suggestion! I haven’t done that before but will need to do that next time I am there.

This is a fab guide to doing London on a budget. I’m visiting next month and you’ve reminded me I need to sort an Oyster card!

I’m off to London next weekend, thanks for the tips. I think I will find Borough Market…

Have so much fun on your trip and be sure to go to Borough Market!

Heading to London in September so this is great! ♥️

Have so much fun!

Great tips! I love walking around London and I just went to Borough Market last weekend for the first time which was fab! In fact, all the markets are great, and the museums too. It’s definitely easy to do London on a budget if you’re not paying to go in to all the main attractions (which unbelievably, I never have!).

Isn’t Borough Market amazing? Agreed that you don’t have to go the tourist traps to experience London!

Great post! I’m saving this for when I finally make it to London someday.

Oh London! One of my favorite cities in the world! I need to check out the royal parks next time. Nice tips. Thank you 😊

Wow that’s an amazing post. Even though I was born in ko Don I haven’t lived there for many years and now when I go home I feel like a tourist! Hadn’t heard of some of these tips so will check them out for sure when I’m back in the city!

Great post!

Very knowledgeable list and we loved visiting London. happening city it is.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

How I Had a 10-Day London Vacation for $700

It’s one of the most expensive destinations in the world.

How do you visit London on a budget?

I came to the city on a 10-day trip for a travel conference and I thought it was the perfect place to test out my budget travel theories to see if you could visit London the cheap. Few people make plans to travel to London thinking they are going to be able to visit cheap.

But what if you could?

After all, there are few impossible budget travel destinations the world.

A city as big and diverse as London must have plenty of ways to lower your costs?

So, without further ado, here’s how my experiment went!

Table of Contents

How Did I Do London on a Budget?

How much did i spend in london, how i saved on my flight to london, how i saved on my accommodation in london, how i saved money visiting attractions in london, how i saved money on food in london, how i saved money on transportation in london, how much would this trip regularly cost.

I used my American Airlines frequent flier miles to pay for my flight. A round-trip ticket from Boston to London cost me 60,000 miles, plus a service charge of $165.10 in taxes and fees.

The miles I used were “anytime miles,” but American Airlines also offers “OffPeak Miles” (off-season really), and you can actually fly to London for as little as 40,000 miles round-trip.

How do I get so many miles? I’m a frequent flier, so I can generate a lot of miles per year. I normally fly about 40,000–50,000 miles per year, which, compared to most travel writers, is pretty low. But I’ve written extensively on how to get miles for free . I sign up for bonus credit cards, sign up for deals, use preferred merchants, and sign up for every contest that gives extra miles. All told, I’ve accumulated over 400,000 frequent flier miles with American Airlines alone through these methods.

While I’ve written many blog posts on how to get points and miles , here’s a quick summary of the best methods:

• Sign up for a branded airline credit card: Whether you love Delta or fly United and the Star Alliance, all US carriers have a branded travel credit card that gives you 40,000–50,000 points when you sign up and make one purchase. That’s a free economy ticket right there. The quickest and best way to gain a lot of free miles is to get one of these travel credit cards .
• Watch out for special promotions: I sign up for all airline mailing lists. I always watch out for special two-for-one mile deals. Or when they have special card offers to earn extra miles. American Airlines just gave me 1,000 miles for watching a demo on their new shopping toolbar. I once got 5,000 miles for joining Netflix. Often you get miles for filling out surveys too or even by tweeting the brands! Utilizing promotions over the course of a few months can yield big results.
• Sign up for a non-airline credit card:  Sign up for a non-airline credit card, and you can get 75,000 sign-up points. Afterward, you can transfer your sign-up bonus points to the airline you use and redeem them for flights.

Think about that for a second.

I had a 10-day vacation in London for $700 USD that included airfare. When was the last time you went to Europe for that little money? When was the last time any big international trip cost that kind of money?  

Before I explain how I did it, I want to take a second to explain some of the ground rules I laid out for myself. I didn’t want to backpack London. My goal was to show the budget travelers of the world — the two-week holiday-makers — that you can do London on the cheap without being a backpacker. That saving money isn’t all dorm rooms, Couchsurfing, and eating pasta.

So, visiting London as a budget traveler, I made three rules:

1. I wouldn’t stay in hostels . I wanted to stay in nice accommodation to prove that even a hotel stay can be cheap.

2. I had to eat a few nice meals . When you go on holiday, you want to eat nice food, so I agreed that I would have at least two really nice meals in London.

3. I couldn’t say “no” because it was expensive . Many backpackers skip sightseeing because of the cost, but I wanted to do all the normal sightseeing activities regular tourists do. You don’t go on a short vacation to not sightsee right?

With these ground rules in place, I set off to visit London as a budget traveler:  

Since my points didn’t get credited in time, I used more American Airlines miles for this. I used 68,000 points plus $25 USD for five nights of accommodation in a four-star hotel. I stayed in a hotel near Hyde Park, a very well-to-do neighborhood in London.

Now, while you can use airline miles for vacations and hotels, you never get as good of a deal when you use them for flights. Five nights using hotel points would have cost me just 50,000 points. The point here, though, is that by signing up for a branded hotel card, you can use those points to get free hotel stays for your next vacation. Or you can use the bonuses from an airline. Either way, getting free hotel rooms isn’t that hard.

London is great for sightseeing because so much is free here. It makes sightseeing on a budget really easy. The best museums — the British Library, British Museum, National Gallery, Natural History Museum, and Museum of London (just to name a few) — are all free. Hyde Park? Free. Kensington Gardens? Free. It’s easy to fill a few days with sightseeing in London without ever spending a penny.

But sadly, not everything is free. For attractions that weren’t free, I used the London Pass . This tourist card cost me 54 GBP ($86 USD) for two days of sightseeing. It covers over 32 destinations and offers free public transportation. You can get a pass for up to six days (87 GBP). There are hundreds upon hundreds of dollars in savings with this pass. However, I didn’t have much time nor the desire to see all 32 spots. I was able to see:

• Westminster Abbey
• Tower of London
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Ben Franklin House
• Britain at War Museum
• Shakespeare’s Globe Museum
• London Tombs

Without this pass, the same attractions would have cost me 104.55 GBP. I saved 50% by using the London Pass, and I didn’t even use it for everything it offers. This is why in so many of my posts about various cities, I stress getting a city pass if you plan to do a lot of museums and tours. You can save a lot of money by doing so. It’s one of the best budget travel tips out there and is all too often overlooked.

Note: As of 2021, the London Pass is 100 GBP ($140 USD) for the two-day pass. Still a bargain if you plan to see a lot!  

I didn’t want to be the typical backpacker and eat kebabs and pasta for every meal. But at the same time, I know locals don’t eat out 100% of the time, either, and a great way to save money is to cook, which is part of the reason I got a place with a kitchen for my last four nights. I wanted to mix eating out with cooking a few meals.

During my 10 days in London, I spent 103.80 GBP ($165 USD) on food, which broke down the following ways:

I spent 9.11 GBP on groceries, including bread, sandwich meat, vegetables, and pasta. This was enough for three dinners and three lunches. (Seriously.)

I spent 2.20 GBP on water bottles, which I refilled over the course of my trip.

My hotels and serviced apartment provided breakfast, though I did go out for McDonald’s one morning. (I just love those hash browns.)

The rest was spent on dining out.

I got pizza one day, went out for good Thai food for one dinner, had great Indian one night, ate typical fish and chips the next, had a few Starbucks green teas, and ate tons of kebabs. They’re everywhere in London. According to my friends, you’re a true Londoner if you’re dining on kebabs, especially if it’s after a night out.

As I said, I didn’t want to skimp on meals. I ate how and when I wanted to. I did look for deals, though, as any good budget traveler knows that good food doesn’t have to be expensive. In London, I found the best way to eat out on a budget was to look for lunch specials. Most restaurants I came across had lunch specials, and many pizza places offered a “buy one, get one free” deal on takeaway.

Another great way to save money is to get the Taste Card . This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on those nice meals you’ll want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long.  

My London Pass covered public transportation for the two days it was valid. And since cabs in London are notoriously expensive even by London standards, I refrained from taking them.

For transportation to Heathrow airport, I took the Heathrow express to get into the city (18.50 GBP) and the London Underground to get out (5 GBP). Around the city, I loaded my oyster card (metro card) for unlimited use within Zones 1–3 for seven days at a cost of 32.20 GBP.

A return flight to London from Boston right now is currently running around $500 USD.

Currently, the average price of a decently-rated three-star hotel in central London is around $120 USD per night. For my nine-night trip, that adds up to around $1,080 USD.

Had I refrained from cooking, I probably would have added about another $150 USD on dining out, knowing my eating habits.

If you add that up and add a little for transportation around the city, I would have spent almost $1,800 USD on this trip.

By using points and miles and spending wisely, I spent 10 days in London for less than half of that, saving myself over $1,000 USD!

Think about that.

I visited London on a budget for 60% off the cost of a normal vacation, and I didn’t skimp on anything.

I just traveled smart, used reward systems, and employed everyday frugality to my advantage. I stayed in nice places, dined out well, and saw all the attractions I wanted. I didn’t sacrifice comfort.

Cheap travel doesn’t mean bad travel.

I wanted to take a vacation to London that my parents or friends — people who wouldn’t be caught dead sleeping in 15-bed dorms to save money — could take. I wanted to travel cheaply without sacrificing comfort.

And I did just that.

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. By investing just a little extra time into planning my trip, I was able to have a wonderful trip for around the cost of the going rate for a flight to London.

You don’t need to spend thousands traveling. A vacation doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg, and the next time you’re inclined to think so, just remember that yes, it is possible to travel cheap , and anyone can do it.

Book Your Trip to London: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight to London by using Skyscanner or Momondo . They are my two favorite search engines. Start with Momondo.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the best inventory. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and budget hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay in London are:

• St. Christopher’s Inn
• Astor Hyde Park Hostel

For more suggested places to stay, check out this longer list of hostels . And if you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood breakdown of London !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never ever go on a trip without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. You should too.

Need Some Gear? Check out our resource page for the best companies to use!

Want a Guide? London has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks . They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions. They’re my go-to walking tour company!

If you want a bike tour, use  Fat Tire Tours . They have the best and most affordable bike tours in the city.

Want More Travel Information on London? Be sure to visit our robust London destination guide on London for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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8 Fantastic Things To Do In London On A Budget

• Budget Travel
• Destinations
• Types of Travel
• United Kingdom

London is an incredible city to visit with a lot to see and do — more than you can fit into one trip — but it can also be expensive if you’re not careful. We all know that eating out often costs more in capital cities than anywhere else, and the price of entry into all those cool museums and galleries can really add up. If you’re traveling on a budget you might be a bit concerned about the prices in London, but there’s no need to be.

It is perfectly possible to enjoy a trip to London while sticking to a budget. There are lots of things you can do for free in the city — turns out many of those cool museums and galleries are free after all — and if you seek out the right restaurants and bars, you’ll find there are deals to be taken advantage of and reasonable prices available. Here are eight fantastic things to do in London on a budget.

1. V&A South Kensington

A lot of museums in London are free to enter, including the Natural History Museum and The British Museum, but my personal favorite is the V&A . The Victoria & Albert Museum is located in South Kensington and is easily accessible by tube from anywhere in London. It’s a beautiful building, even before you dive into the displays of art, design, and performance. Wandering around the V&A is like a museum within a museum, the interior is so stunning.

The café, the world’s oldest museum restaurant, is the most beautiful café I’ve ever been in. It’s like a stateroom in a palace. Ornate columns and glittering chandeliers are embraced by gold-lined walls. Outside, the garden café is a charming courtyard that could easily be in Italy. Exhibitions are always changing, so take a look at what’s on before you go. Some exhibitions do come at a charge, but you can see most of the museum for free.

Price Range: Entry is free, but some special exhibitions will cost up to £20 per person to enter. You can buy these tickets when you arrive, but to be sure of entry to any exhibitions you especially want to see, book ahead.

2. St James’s Park

All the parks in London are lovely to stroll through and completely free, but St James’s Park has the added bonus of being so close to Buckingham Palace that you can enjoy the greenspace while taking in the royal views. It’s a lovely place for a picnic, though there are also two cafes in the park. Find the blue bridge on the lake and you’ll have incredible views of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and The London Eye.

The lake itself has been here since 1664 and is a lovely serene spot to take a few moments and just enjoy the ducks and geese. As you walk around the park you’ll see pretty displays of flowers, fountains, memorials, and statues, including The Tiffany Fountain, a 20-foot rise of water in the middle of the park.

Price Range: Free

3. Eat In Chinatown

Right in the center of London, close to The West End, Leicester Square, and Soho, Chinatown is a blaze of color and Chinese culture. A great arch welcomes you in and lanterns strewn from building to building guide you through the streets. There are some great authentic Asian supermarkets here where you can pick up Asian foods you won’t see anywhere else, and there’s a Chinese restaurant at every turn, but it’s also a lovely area for a wander and the perfect place to pick up some street food or snacks.

There are a few places offering takeaways, but I love the Chinatown Bakery down here. You can pick up a steamed bun for a reasonable price and wander through the streets while you eat. The bakery gets very busy and there’s a one-way system inside, so have an idea of what you want before you go in.

Price Range: It’s free to wander around Chinatown and soak up the atmosphere. You can buy steamed buns in the Chinatown Bakery for as little as £1.40 each.

4. South Bank Beach

Didn’t know London had a beach? It actually has a few, but South Bank Beach is my favorite. South Bank is a busy, cosmopolitan place to hang out, with pop-up markets, street food, and lots of cute cafes and ice cream parlors. It’s a nice walk along the South Bank, taking in the views of the River Thames and soaking up the atmosphere. But you can also take some time out here to enjoy the beach.

South Bank Beach is a real soft sand beach, and it really does feel like you’re by the sea when you sit on the sand and enjoy the view. But you’re not, so remember that you can’t swim in the River Thames here. It’s a lovely spot to relax in for a while and you’ll see some incredible sand sculptures.

5. Brick Lane Markets

There are many great markets to visit in London, but over the years some of these have lost their authenticity and become more touristy and more expensive. For a real traditional London market area , head to Brick Lane . Here you’ll find street food, food markets, vintage markets , record fairs, and the most incredible atmosphere.

Browse stall after stall while the aroma of world foods being cooked in the street food market wafts through the air. Find some bargains and enjoy some authentic street food in these old warehouse buildings. Out on the streets, performers play music, and the whole area takes on a party vibe. It’s a busy, vibrant place to be and there’s so much to look through you can end up spending hours here, but you won’t spend a fortune.

Price Range: Free to enter, but what you spend in the markets is up to you. There’s so much amazing produce, clothing, and crafts, it’s hard not to get carried away.

6. Hyde Park Speakers Corner

In Hyde Park, there’s a small area, a corner, where anyone can get up and give a speech, or just say what’s on their mind. Speakers Corner has been a designated place for public speaking since 1872. Karl Marx gave a speech here, as did George Orwell. It’s hailed as being the birthplace of free speech, due to the fact that public hangings once took place here and the condemned were invited to give a last speech. After hangings were abolished, the speaking element continued. Anyone can say anything here, and lots of people stop to listen. So, if you have something to say this is the place to do it, or you can simply pause and listen to what other people have to say.

7. Eat At Barrio Bar

There are a lot of fancy restaurants in London, but if you’re dining out on a budget it is perfectly possible to find small places that offer great deals. Barrio Bars are located all around central London — in Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch, Angel, and Brixton — so wherever you are, there’s one not far away. If you arrive before 4 p.m., you can catch their bottomless brunch, which is brunch that goes on all day. In the evening, the main menu is really reasonably priced. It’s not fancy — this is Mexican street food in a bar setting — but it’s pretty cheap for what you get and the drinks are two for the price of one during happy hour.

Price Range: Quesadillas are the most expensive item on the menu at £9, and fries are the cheapest at just £4. Cocktails are between £10 and £12 and are two for one all evening on Mondays, till 8 p.m. on Fridays, and till 10 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday.

8. Stay At Z Hotel

Like Barrio Bars, you can find Z Hotels all over London, in Soho, Covent Garden, Piccadilly, Shoreditch, and Holborn. And also like Barrio Bars, these budget hotels provide central locations for a good price, so you can stay in London while sticking to your budget. These are no-frills hotels, but the rooms have everything you need and with all the sightseeing you’ll be doing you won’t be in them long anyway.

Rooms are compact but have a TV, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and en suite facilities. What’s fantastic about Z Hotels is their locations. I stayed in the Covent Garden hotel and it was a 5-minute walk from everything I wanted to see and do. The gates were locked at midnight, and there are no staff around after this time, but your room key card lets you in the gates and into the hotel too.

Price Range: A single room at Z Hotels is £70 for the night. The Z Inside Queen is a bit like a cabin room, with no window, and costs £90 per night. The Z Queen, with a window, is £105 per night. These prices do increase at peak times, but you can get a great deal out of season. Breakfast is charged at £9.50 per person.

Related Reading:

• London’s Oldest Business Is A Delicious Destination Not To Miss
• 7 Insider Tips For Visiting My Favorite Art Museum In The World
• 7 Delicious Restaurants To Try Near London’s Elizabeth Line

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

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Feel rich living within your means

London on a Budget: 12 Tips for Cheap Travel

By Eden Ashley MintNotion.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on this site, we will earn a commission at no added cost to you. This helps keep the content on this website free for everyone to enjoy. Disclosure Page

Is London expensive to visit? It’s no secret that London is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. However it is still possible to visit on a budget .

My sister and I traveled to London while we were students and found there were plenty of ways to eat good food, stay in a central location, and check out the city’s top attractions without breaking the bank.

Today I’m sharing the dos’ and donts when it comes to visiting London on a budget, including:

• What are the best neighborhoods to stay in London on a budget
• The best cheap hotels in London
• The best way to get around London on a budget
• The best cheap eats in London
• The cheapest way to see London attractions
• Free things to do in London
• General tips and tricks to help you plan your London itinerary

Related Posts:

• 5-Day London Itinerary For First-Time Visitors
• 27 things to know before visiting London for the first time
• The best tips for visiting the Tower of London

Table of Contents

Where to stay in London on a budget?

When visiting London for the first time, I recommend staying in one of the following neighborhoods.

This will provide a great base to see all of city’s main attractions, especially for a family trip to London.

• Covent Garden (central London location perfect for first-timers)
• Soho (great for nightlife, arts & culture)
• South Kensington (best for families, museum lovers and history buffs)
• Mayfair (best for luxury and romance)
• Camden (best for those on a budget)
• South Bank (across from the River Thames and great for tourists)

If you’re on a tight budget, below are some top-rated budget hotels in London:

• Point A Hotel London – Shoreditch
• Point A Hotel London Kings Cross – St Pancras
• The Corner London City – Close to the Tower of London
• Ridgemount Hotel – Close to Covent Garden and University College London
• Park Grand Paddington Court – Close to Paddington Station

If you have more room in your budget, below are the best mid-range hotels in London:

• Great Northern Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – Near Kings Cross / St Pancras station
• The Barbican Rooms – Close to the city center
• Club Quarters Hotel St. Paul’s – Close to St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Locke at Broken Wharf – Close to Milennium Bridge and Tate Modern
• Cove – Cannon Street, The City – Close to St. Paul’s Cathedral

One of my favorite ways to save money on accommodations is to check for deals on sites like Booking.com .

How much should I budget for a trip to London?

If you’re visiting London on a budget, let’s take a look at how much it costs to visit London for the average traveler.

Hotels – For a couple, the average hotel in London costs £181 ($202 USD). For one person, the average hotel or hostel will cost £91.

Food and Meals – Most travelers spend around  £29 ($32 USD) on meals for one day. You can save money by buying pre-made meals from local grocery stores or making food in your hotel room (if possible).

Attractions – While most museums in London are free, the entrance fee for most of its popular attractions is between £20-£30. The best way to save money on paid attractions is to buy the London Pass .

Below are some more helpful do’s and don’ts when visiting London on a budget!

1. Get an Oyster Card

An Oyster Card is smart card (the size of a credit card) that you add money to, so you can pay as you go to travel on the London’s public transit.

Riding the tube without an Oyster Card can get expensive. It can cost TWICE the price for someone traveling without an Oyster Card when taking the exact same journey.

An Oyster card allows travelers to ride for cheaper than those buying individual tickets . It’s 50% cheaper thank buying single tickets.

If you want to get around London on a budget, then you’ll want to consider getting an Oyster Card, Visitor Oyster Card , or contactless payment cards.

Many tourist don’t realize this and make the mistake of not getting an Oyster Card.

You can pick up an Oyster Card at the airport or any tube station when arriving in London. This is a great option if you plan on using the metro a lot.

Consider getting the London Pass + Oyster Card Bundle

If you’re planning to check out the popular attractions in London, consider getting the London Pass .

This is a digital sightseeing card that gives you access to 80+ attractions in the city.

The London Pass includes a 1-day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and you can also add a Visitor Oyster Card to your pass at checkout.

The Visitor Oyster Card is pre-loaded with enough credit to match the duration of your pass. This gives you access to the London Underground, buses, Overground, and the DLR at any time, any day of the week.

2. Save on attractions with the London Pass

Visiting London for the first time is exciting! London is a big city and there’s lots of fun things to do and see.

But it can be challenging to plan an itinerary and determine which attractions to spend your money on, especially when you want to visit London on a budget.

The best way to save money on London attractions:

Getting the most bang for your buck is my #1 priority when planning a vacation and the London Pass was rated the #1 London tourism pass by TripAdvisor .

HURRY! Save up to 10% off the London Pass . Offer ends April 25th. You have 2 years to activate the pass.

They’re also recommended by Expedia and The London Pass currently has a TrustScore rating of 4.4/5 on Trust Pilot , which makes it one of the highest rated sightseeing passes.

Over 3 million travelers have used the pass and it’s the only all-inclusive pass rated 4+ on Google.

With the London Pass, you can save time, money, and enjoy stress-free sightseeing. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out these reviews.

PRO TIP:  Buy the pass online to save extra money off the retail price. To buy the London Pass, click here to go to the official website.

How much money can you save with the London Pass? Just by using the 3-Day London Pass, you can save over 55% than if you had purchased tickets to each individual attraction.

What’s included in the London Pass ?

✓ Pick from over 90 London attractions ✓ Valid for up to 10 days ✓ Save over 55% when you visit 3 attractions per day compared to purchasing individual tickets ✓ Mobile pass option

The London Pass is a pre-paid sightseeing card which gives you FREE fast-track entry to over 90+ attractions, museums, and tours in the city.

Below are some of my favorite attractions included in the London Pass:

Classic London Attractions:

• Tower of London (£29.90 value)
• Westminster Abbey (£25.00 value)
• St Paul’s Cathedral (£21.00 value)

Unique things to do in London:

• London Bridge Experience (£28.95 value)
• Uber Boat by Thames Clippers 1-day River Roamer (£21.00 value)
• London Zoo (£38.00 value)

Popular things to do in London:

• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour (£34.00 value)
• The view from the Shard (£37.00 value)
• Kensington Palace (£20.00 value)

The London Pass also includes an optional Oyster travelcard to cover all your transportation needs.

Once you’ve bought the London Pass, you can visit as many attractions as you want. The more sights you visit, the more money you save!

Is the London Pass worth it? Check out my honest review of the London Pass here.

How to get your London Pass:

Step 1: Choose which pass duration you want to buy (1, 2, 3, 6, or 10 day). You can click here to purchase your London Pass from their official website.

Why you should consider buying the pass online:

• When you buy the pass online, you can take advantage of online discounts .
• They offer a 365-day money-back guarantee , so you can get a full refund just in case your plans change.
• You can activate your pass anytime within two years from the date of purchase.

STEP 2: Download your mobile pass instantly using the London Pass app.

If you prefer a physical pass, simply print your pass and guidebook at home. Links and easy-to-follow instructions for both options will be in your confirmation email.

Step 3: You now have FREE access to any of the 90+ top London attractions included for the duration of your pass.

How to activate the pass : It will activate once you visit your first attraction and can then be used on consecutive calendar days for the number of days purchased. 

You’ll also receive a free guidebook , which is included with your purchase. Use this book to help you easily plan your itinerary.

Which pass should you get for your trip?

1 day in London? Consider getting the 1-Day London Pass .

If you ride the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, visit Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul’s Cathedral, you’ll save nearly £30 vs. paying the regular admission price.

2 days in London? Consider getting the 1-Day or 2-Day London Pass . You can spend the first day visiting your “must-see” paid attractions, then visit London’s free attractions on the second day.

3 days in London? Consider getting the 2-Day or 3-Day London Pass . You can spend the first two days visiting your “must-see” paid attractions, then visit London’s free attractions on the third day.

4 days in London? Consider getting the 3-Day or 4-Day London Pass . You can spend the first three days visiting your “must-see” paid attractions, then visit London’s free attractions on the fourth day.

5 days in London? Consider getting the 4-Day or 5-Day London Pass . You can spend the first four days visiting your “must-see” paid attractions, then visit London’s free attractions on the fifth day.

I used the 3-Day London Pass pass for my 5-day London itinerary. This allowed me to visit more attractions than I would have otherwise!

6+ days in London? Consider getting the 6-Day , 7-Day , or 10-Day London Pass . You can spend the first several days visiting your “must-see” paid attractions, then visit London’s free attractions on the last couple of days.

3. Book all your attractions in advance

If you have your heart set on visiting a certain attraction, seeing a particular show, or eating at a specific restaurant, you should book in advance .

Booking in advance is usually cheaper and saves you the hassle of having to wait in long line-ups when you’re in London. Just skip the line and head straight to the attraction.

If you’re using the London Pass , this already gives you an advantage since you can skip the line at most attractions.

Some tours and attractions require advance reservations , which you can do through their site after buying your pass.

Pre-booking attractions, such as The View from the Shard is essential . If you’re using the London Pass, you can find details about how to book your time slot on their website.

If you’re not using the London Pass and prefer to buy individual tickets, I like using GetYourGuide . They offer free cancellation so you can receive a full refund if you’re travel plans change.

Below are some of the popular attractions and tours that you may want to consider booking in advance.

The view from the Shard

Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter

Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms

The London Eye

Tower of London

Westminster Abbey

St Paul’s Cathedral

London Bridge Experience and Tombs

London Dungeon

4. Save time by visiting attractions that are close together

To make the most of your London vacation, try to plan your daily itinerary by visiting attractions that are close together.

This will save you A LOT of time and stress of trying to go across town to the next attraction. I recommend planning to visit 2-3 attractions per day that are close to eachother.

For my trip, we just focused on one main neighborhood per day . This helped us maximize our sightseeing time. Below are some suggestions to get inspired.

Things to do near Westminster :

Wesminster Abbey

10 Downing Street

Buckingham Palace

Things to do near Kensington :

The Natural History Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum

The Science Museum

Things to do near Hyde Park :

Kensington Palace

Prince Albert Memorial

Princess Diana Memorial

Things to do near Trafalgar Square :

The National Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery

Piccadilly Circus

Leicester Square

Covent Garden

Things to do near the Thames River:

London Bridge

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Tate Modern

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Tower Bridge

5. Book your accommodations i n the city center

When visiting London on a budget, I know that it’s tempting to save money by booking accommodations outside of the city center.

But this is a common tourist mistake! Commuting into the city every day can get very expensive. Plus, it wastes precious sight-seeing time.

This is the ONE area that I would highly recommend pushing your budget to the maximum you can afford.

London is a big city with lots to see and do, which makes it worth your while to pay a little more to stay in the city.

Because hotels can be pricey in London, I recommend looking for affordable accommodations on Booking.com . This is my go-to site for finding cheap hotels rates.

Best hotels on a budget in London:

• Locke at Broken Wharf – Near Millennium Bridge
• New Road Hotel – In East London close to Whitechapel Station
• Twenty Nevern Square Hotel – Near Earls Court & Kensington
• Novotel London Paddington
• The Hoxton, Shoreditch – Affordable luxury hotel in London
• Generator London – One of the best hostels in London
• Belgrave Hotel – In the heart of London close to Pimlico Station

When you stay in a central location, you’ll be able to walk or take a short bus ride to all the main attractions.

For London Pass holders , you can take the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour or use the optional Oystercard to get around the city.

PRO TIP : Get a quality London guide book

Yes, I still use guide books. I find them incredibly helpful when planning my travel itinerary.

They often include neighborhood maps, sample itineraries, self-guided walking tours, and budget-friendly dining suggestions which come in handy. My favorite London guide books are from Lonely Planet , Rick Steves , and Fodor’s .

6. Don’t ride the tube for every trip

Yes, using an Oyster card is a smart way to save money when riding the tube. However, the tube isn’t the only way to get around London.

Even though the city is large, it’s easy to get to most central attractions on foot. London is a very walkable city , just make sure to wear comfortable shoes!

If walking is not convenient for you, consider riding one of London’s buses , which are much cheaper than taking the tube.

Best ways to get around London:

The city is very walkable and it’s easy to get around to most of the major attractions on foot.

You can so ride London’s public transit or take the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . Both options are included in the London Pass .

If you’re looking for a unique way to see London, consider taking the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers 1-day River Roamer . This is also included in London Pass .

If you need to take a taxi, use Uber. Black cabs are iconic in London, but they can be very expensive and Uber is usually cheaper.

You can also hire a Santander Cycles in London from £1.65 for 30 minutes.

If you do have some room in your budget, below are some popular walking tours to check out in London:

• Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour
• Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour
• London: Ghastly Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour

7. Enjoy the cheap eats at local supermarkets

It’s no secret dining out in London can be expensive. This is why I love grabbing food at local supermarkets. This is one of the best places to eat in London on a budget.

Local supermarkets, such as Tesco , Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencers, and Waitrose offer a variety of pre-made food, such as sandwiches or salads, which are perfect for a quick lunch or snack on-the-go.

Have a picnic in the park or enjoy your meal in the comfort of your hotel.

PRO TIP : Get the Taste Card

Consider getting the Taste Card to save money on food. With either 2 for 1 meals or 50% off , you can save at thousands of restaurants in London.

General tips for dining on a budget and finding cheap eats in London :

Look for international cuisine – Indian, Thai, Chinese, and Turkish all offer great value at a good price when dining out.

Eat your main meal at lunch time – I noticed that lots of restaurants in London offer lunch specials during the week. This is usually cheaper than eating in the evening.

Check out local food markets – Some popular spots to get street food include Portobello Road Market , Borough Market , the Real Food Market , Southbank Center Food Market , and Camden Market.

Try a tradtional English breakfast – This meals is quite filling and is usually more affordable than lunch and dinner menu prices.

Don’t order soda pop – The UK has introduced a sugar tax which makes Coca-Cola even more expensive.

Get take-away food – Takeaway food is taxed less than eat-in food. If the weather is nice, grab your meal to-go and have a picnic in the park. Pret a Manger is also a great option for sandwiches, soups, salads, and wrap.

Do your research in advance – The last thing anyone wants to do is pay for an expensive meal at a restaurant that has bad service and food. I like using review Google to find the top-rated restaurants in my price range.

Choose one meal per day as a sit-down meal – Sit-down restaurants tend to be more expensive than take-away or street food. Try to limit this to once per day.

For example, you can grab a quick breakfast at a cafe, enjoy a sit-down meal at a restaurant for lunch, and grab an inexpensive meal for dinner. Or you can have an inexpensive lunch and splurge on a nice dinner.

8. Know how much to tip in London

Before visiting any new country, it’s always a good idea to do some research on tip etiquette.

While tipping is appreciated, it’s not always appropriate in London. Here are some basic guidelines to keep in mind:

Tipping in London restaurants:

When eating out, it’s customary to leave 10-15% of the bill.

Sometimes restaurants add on a service charge (usually 12.5%), so I recommend double checking your bill to prevent tipping twice. Tipping is not customary for fast food, take-away or self-service.

Tipping in bars:

Tipping is not common in bars or pubs. If you experience good service, you can round up your total to the nearest pound.

Tipping in taxi drivers:

While it is polite to tip 10-15% of the taxi fare, most people round up to the nearest pound.

Tipping in London hotels:

Many London hotel restaurants include a service charge, usually 10-12%. If a service charge is not included on your restaurant bill, it’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip.

For cleaning staff and hotel porters, leaving a tip is at your own discretion, but always appreciated.

9. Check out London’s free attractions

While London is known to be expensive, most of the city’s museums and art galleries are free. This can help cut down on vacation costs when you’re visiting London on a budget.

For my 5-day trip to London , my sister and I spent the first couple of days exploring all the free museums.

Then for the remaining 3 days, we used the London Pass to save money on the city’s popular attractions, such as the Tower of London and Churchill War Rooms.

Using the London Pass is the most cost effective way to see those attractions.

Free things to do in London:

National Gallery

National Portrait Gallery

British Museum

Natural History Museum

Victoria & Albert Museum

Science Museum

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

London’s city parks – Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Richmond Park, Hampstead Heath, St James’s Park, Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill, and Victoria Park.

Sky Garden – This is London’s highest public garden that offers 360-degree views of the city’s iconic skyline. It’s located at 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the The Walkie Talkie. It’s free to visit, but you must book tickets in advance.

Do you only want to visit a few paid London attractions?

Consider purchasing the GO City London Explorer Pass . You can to visit 3, 5, or 7 top attractions and tours as you go.

Save over 40% off London’s top attractions . You can read my full review here .

Another fun thing to do in London is to take a free walking tour. These are usually led by local university students and they work on tips . So technically, they’re not “free”, but they are affordable.

I also recommend exploring one of London’s many parks. There are tons to choose from and this can be a great way to enjoy a picnic or take a break from sightseeing and relax.

Read Next: 8 spots to find the best view of London

10. Don’t try to see everything in London

There’s so much to see and do in London, it’s impossible to do everything in one trip. While it’s tempting to jump from one expensive attraction to the next, you’ll end up losing money by not making the most of your experience.

Plan ahead and devote enough time for your essential attractions . This can help you get better value and gain a deeper appreciation for these attractions.

If you’re looking to save the most money when sightseeing, I recommend to using the London Pass or the GO City London Explorer Pass .

It’s silly to pay full-price at London’s popular attractions when you can save money with these tourism passes. This can be a great way to visit London on a budget without sacrificing fun.

How many days do you need in London?

While you can see most of the main sights in London in two to three days, for first-time visitors, I recommend spending at least 4-5 days in London.

My sister and I spent 5 days in London and still found that this was enough time to see most of the main attractions, but we could have easily spend a week in the city.

This is why I recommend planning your London itinerary in advance. This can help you decide on your must-see attractions and if you’re interested in taking any daytrips from London, such as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour of The Making of Harry Potter .

Below are some more day trip ideas from London you may want to consider:

• Bath, Winsdor Castle, and Stonehendge
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds
• Downton Abbey locations

11. Ride the Airport Express train

There are a few ways to travel from the airport into London. The quickest option is to take the airport express train.

This can help maximize your vacation time. If you want to visit London on a budget, remember that it’s cheaper to buy a return ticket than paying for two separate trips.

Both Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport offer an express train into London, however I prefer to fly into Gatwick for a couple of reasons:

• It’s less busy than Heathrow airport
• It’s usually cheaper to fly into Gatwick

You can purchase your Heathrow Express or Gatwick Express train tickets at the airport when you arrive. Make sure to purchase a return ticket at the same time because this saves you money.

PRO TIP: If you’re purchasing a roundtrip Gatwick Express ticket, you may qualify for Days Out Guide 2FOR1 offers . This can help you save money at London’s popular attractions.

Prep for your trip to London:

12. Save money on London’s theater and musical tickets

One of the most popular things to do in London is to see a West End show and live theatre.

The best way to save money on theatre tickets to book tickets online in advance. This ensures that you’re getting the best seat.

If you’re looking for last-minute tickets in London, then visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square. Here you can find half-price and discounted theatre tickets on the day of the show.

You can also try buying stanby tickets directly from the theatre box office. Have a back-up show in mind because you may not get your first choice.

London on a Budget FAQs

How can i enjoy london on a budget.

• Use an Oyster Card to ride London’s public transportation instead of paying cash.
• Use the London Pass if you’re planning to visit the city’s top attractions.
• Check out London’s supermarkets and local food markets for cheap eats.
• Check out London’s free museums and attractions.
• Find cheap hotel deals on Booking.com .

Is London expensive for travel?

London is not a cheap place to visit. But with the right planning, you can definitely visit London on a budget. Look for cheap accommodations, cook your own meals, visit free attractions, and walk or bike to get around the city.

How much money do you need per day in London?

The average daily cost (per person) is £145 ($203 USD). This is based on what past travellers have spent when visiting London.

Meals cost an average of £29 ($40 USD) per person, per day.

Transportation costs an average of £20 ($29 USD) per day. However, you can save money on transportation if planning to use the London Pass + Oyster Card. For example, the 3-day London Pass Oyster Card is £30, which is around £10 per day. for transportation.

The average hotel price per couple in London is £182 ($254 USD) per night.

How much money do you need per day in London? Plan to spend an average of £115 per day in London. A one-week trip to London for ONE person is around £1,017 . For two people, the cost is around £2,034 .

How can I eat cheap in London?

London restaurants can be expensive, but there are a few ways to eat cheap on your trip.

• Eat food from around the world . London has many ethnic restaurants that offer affordable meals, such as Indian, Chinese, Korean, and so on.
• Try street food . There are many food stalls and markets in London that sell affordable meals.
• Grab food from the supermarket . You can buy sandwiches and pre-made meals from the local supermarket for cheap.
• Make breakfast your biggest meal of the day . A traditional English breakfast is filling and cheap compared to lunch and dinner prices.
• Make lunch your main meal of the day . If you’re not a big breakfast person, consider checking out the lunch special offered at local restaurants. This is usually cheaper than their dinner menu.

When is the cheapest time to visit London?

The cheapest time to visit London is during the off-season. This is in the fall (November to mid-December) and winter (January to March).

The fall is my favorite time to visit London because you can enjoy the mild weather and holiday festivities before the Christmas rush.

What are the cheapest things to do in London?

Below are some of the best free (or cheap) things to do in London:

• Walk the glass floor at Tower Bridge
• Check out the Churchill War Rooms
• Visit the National Gallery
• Learn about history at the British Museum
• Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A Museum)
• Marvel at St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Be a kid again at the Natural History Museum
• Explore the Borough Market
• Have a picnic in Hyde Park
• Shop a Covent Garden

Is 2 nights in London enough?

While you won’t be able to see everything London has to offer, 2 nights is still worth a trip to London. You’ll be able to see a few of the city’s main attractions and landmarks. Just enough to make you want to come back for a longer visit.

How long is a good trip to London?

Aim to spend at least 4-5 days in London. This should give you enough time to get a good idea of what London is like, explore the different neighborhoods, see the main attractions, and not feel rushed.

What should I know before traveling to London?

• They drive on the left, so make sure to look right before crossing the street.
• British pints of beer are larger than in the USA. In the UK, a pint is 20 fluid ounces and in the USA it’s 16 fluid ounces.
• In a restaurant, the bill usually comes with a service charge. If not, then you can choose to tip 10% if service was good. Tipping is less common in London.
• Use an Oyster Card when riding London’s public transportation. This is cheaper than paying for single tickets.
• If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing, consider getting the London Pass . This will save you up to 70% off the city’s most popular attractions vs. paying for individual entry tickets.
• If you’re only visiting a few attractions, consider getting the London Explorer Pass . This will save you money and allow you to skip the lines so you can maxmize your time.
• The UK uses £££. 100 pence = 1 £. The smallest paper note is 5 pounds. There are also £2 and £1 coins.
• Black cabs in London are iconic, but I recommend taking an Uber instead. They accept credit card payment and are usually cheaper than taking a cab.

What should I avoid in London?

Avoid eating at restaurants in Leicester Square. They are expensive and catered to tourists. Check out SoHo instead.

Oxford Street is great for shopping, but it’s one of the most crowded areas in London. For a more relaxing shopping experience, consider going to Carnaby Street or Brick Lane.

City of London on holiday weekends. It tends to be extremely busy.

Avoid traveling on the Tube during rush hour when it’s the busiest time.

Avoid walking at night alone. London is safe, but walking in an unfamiliar city alone at night is usually not a good idea.

Is New York or London more expensive?

If you’re trying to figure out if you should travel to New York or London, a vacation to New York City is more expensive.

According to BudgetYourTrip , the average daily cost per person, per day in London is $189 USD. In New York City, the average daily cost per person, per day is $238 USD.

While the cost of food is similiar in both cities, accommodation, transportation, entertainment, and alcohol is much cheaper in London than in New York City.

About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. As a new mom (and homeowner), she knows the importance of having a budget that works. She's helped thousands of women get good with money using the same strategies she used to save $100,000 by age 25. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

Reader Interactions

March 12, 2023 at 10:59 pm

London is a city with relatively high tourist spending in Europe. Thank you for your list. I believe it will save a lot of money for my trip to London in May.

May 26, 2017 at 10:25 am

May I just correct you on not tipping in bars and pubs in the UK. It is only not common practise if you are having one drink. If you buy a large round for a few people at once, it is customary to say “take one for yourself”. Or if you are staying at the same bar for a while and having many drinks. It is a good idea to tip the bar staff for your first drink, as you will get served faster the next time you return to the bar.

May 11, 2017 at 2:26 am

Hi, thank you for your tips on London’s visit on a budget. I have been to London and back. Great help there. I think like you said if we have access to a kitchen we can saved more on food and once in a while eat out…

August 1, 2016 at 7:29 pm

After traveling to London several times I would agree your suggestions are spot on. I especially love the 2for1 deals and have used those to save quite a bit of money over the years. And the Oyster Card is a must, if not for being more affordable but it’s also so easy to use.

How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 London Trip Budget)

London’s reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world is well-earned, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed by families and budget travelers all the way to luxury aficionados. If you are wondering, “how much does a trip to London cost?”, we’ve got your answers.

After planning our own 7 days in London , and helping numerous other families plan a trip to London, I’ve done a ton of research into hotel options, activities, and ways to cut costs on your London trip budget (check this post for ideas of free things to do in London with kids .)

If you are still debating where to go, also check out our budget guides for Italy , Paris , Greece , Portugal, Ireland , Japan , and Iceland .

London Budget assumptions

To help you create your London trip budget, this post outlines pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11, traveling in the summer, and spending a week in London (six nights, seven days). If you are traveling in the off-season or not with a large family, your costs will undoubtedly be lower. When planning your own London trip budget, make adjustments as needed to suit your specific travel companions and travel style.

I’m going to assume that this family is traveling in the summer months, since that is when most families travel, although London would also be a great spring break destination and we also enjoyed visiting London for Christmas . This budget also isn’t for budget travelers, but rather for small families that are comfortable sharing a family-size room in three to four-star accommodations.

London Trip Cost

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Remember to keep in mind the exchange rate when looking at rates listed in British pounds. I use xe.com to convert currency. To figure out how much is a trip to London, I included the following elements:

• Airfare from a major U.S. airport hub
• Hotel/Accommodations (6 nights in family-friendly, mid-range accommodations)
• Tours/Entrance Fees (for a mix of self-guided and private family tours and activities)
• Transportation within London and to/from the airport
• Food (including one special high tea)

Souvenirs/Miscellaneous

• Travel insurance

While it used to be common to find airfare between the U.S. and London for $500 per person, those prices have gone up recently, especially for summer travel. If you book at least six months in advance or travel during shoulder seasons, you can find airfares under $750 if you are willing to connect (typically through Iceland or Dublin using Iceland Air or Aer Lingus). However, direct flights in the summer will cost closer to $900 per person.

This is certainly the time to redeem frequent flier points or credit card points to cover flights. If you have flexibility on your vacation time, I recommend subscribing to an airfare deal site such as Going or Dollar Flight Club to look for sales and sign up for deal alerts.

If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

Heathrow Airport is a major global hub for most international airlines, but you may find deals on budget airlines such as Play or Norse Airlines to Stansted or Gatwick airports.

Total airfare cost: $2700 (4 people x $900 per person)

Accommodations

The two biggest factors in determining hotel room costs will be space and location. If you’d like two adjoining rooms or a family suite in the immediate central part of the city at a four or five-star hotel (we loved the Atheneum Hotel & Residences ), plan to spend $900 – 1,500 per night. If you have the budget, you’ll be within walking distance to many attractions with luxury hotel services like a concierge, on-site fine dining, etc.

However, if you’re willing to stay in one of London’s charming neighborhoods, just a short tube ride away from the immediate center of the city, then not only will you save money, but you can often find more spacious accommodations like apartment-style hotels or wonderful vrbo rentals . Just keep in mind that some of these will require a minimum of a 5-7 night stay.

The average cost per night for four-star accommodation or apartment rentals in areas like South Kensington (we also loved the Royal Garden Hotel ), Notting Hill, and Little Venice is approximately $300-600 per night.

Find accommodations options in London:

Just be careful when booking stand-alone rentals… ask for the exact address or closest major cross street so you can map it out. If you’re outside the T1 London Tube area, you’ll pay more for transportation and waste precious time each day traveling into the city. See my tips for booking Airbnb or other vacation rentals .

Total accommodation cost: $3,600 (based on $600 per night for 6 nights)

Tours/Entrance Fees

Investing in a Blue-Badge guide for half-day tours or a walking tour is a great splurge and a perfect way to explore some of London’s most popular attractions. The cost of a private family tour is usually around $300-400 for a half-day experience.

These guides can make the history of London come alive for you and your children. My two favorite attractions to invest in a guide are the British Museum and the Tower of London . We also enjoyed having a private tour of Westminster City .

If a private guide is too much of a stretch, spend the extra few pounds to supply each member of the family with an audio guide at major attractions. Many have dedicated children’s versions.

The other sightseeing expense that adds up quickly when visiting London is entrance fees. Expect to spend $15-60 per person to enter places like the Tower of London, Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, London Eye , and the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio .

Keep your eye out for family passes when booking tickets in advance. Most attractions offer a discount for families that will include admission for two adults and two to three kids for one discounted amount.

If you plan on visiting quite a few attractions in just a couple of days, the London Go City Explorer or the London Pass can also be a money saver!

Luckily, most major museums are free (the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, etc.), as are all the large parks (Hyde Park, St. James, Regent’s Park, and the Olympic Park). So pair pricier activities with free options throughout the week.

Total tour/sightseeing cost: $1,200 (based on two private tours of $300, plus $100 per day for six days in additional entrance fees)

Transportation

Airport Transfers

The Heathrow Express is a great value and only costs about $10-15 per person when purchasing an advance ticket for a specific day of travel (flexible tickets are more.) The ride takes 20 minutes and takes you directly into Paddington Station, from which you can usually hail a reasonably priced taxi to take you to your accommodation. It is a bit of a long walk within Heathrow from one terminal to the other but it is worth it for the cost and time savings. Plus, children aged 15 years and under travel free in Express Class when accompanied by a paying adult.

Otherwise, arrange a driver in advance for about $150-200 through your hotel concierge. Taxis to and from the airport can sometimes be much pricier as traffic is so unpredictable in that part of the city.

London Tube

Taking the tube is not just a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around London, it’s frankly an integral part of the London experience. Invest in a Visitor Oyster card for each adult and any child over age 10, as it will reduce the per-ride cost compared to individual tickets.

If you have seven days in London , a day trip or two out of the city is fun. Train tickets to places like Oxford, Windsor, or Bath usually price out around $40-60 per person roundtrip. Be sure to book in advance for the best rates. If you decide to hire a driver, expect costs to be $500-1,000 for a full day of service.

Total transportation costs: $400 (based on using public transportation)

Food expenses can be difficult to budget for any destination, both because it can vary so drastically based on personal preferences and because it’s hard to know what your family will want to eat each day. Personally, I like a mix of quick, convenient food and sit-down, upscale dining, and London offers options at both ends of this spectrum.

This is typically included in a hotel stay. Otherwise, plan to hit a grocery store (small shops are prevalent throughout the city, look for chains like Waitrose and Sainsbury) and stock up on some basic supplies to keep in your room and apartment. Be sure to try a full English breakfast at least one morning of your trip… you likely won’t need lunch it’s so robust!

You can score some great savings at lunch if you duck into a grocery store and take advantage of their package deals. Most grocery stores offer a sandwich, drink, and a bag of crisps (potato chips) for around $4-7. Pick up some fruit or prepared veggies to share, and you can feed the whole family for around $40. Plus there are quick service Pret a Manger shops on nearly every corner.

If you’ve got access to kitchen facilities, then once again you’ll find great savings at the grocery stores. Most offer high-quality, upscale pre-made food that only requires you to heat and serve (think roasted chicken dishes, veggies, potatoes, and dessert).

This is often less than $30 for a healthy, satisfying meal that requires little effort. Takeaways are also fairly inexpensive, and it’s a fun way of trying the more ethnically diverse food like Indian and Thai, or the famous fish n’ chips! that London is known for.

When to Splurge

London has some outstanding restaurants, and I love to have a nice sit-down meal at least a few times during a week-long trip, balanced out with casual, cheaper fare. And don’t forget to indulge in afternoon tea!

While it typically prices out between $40-60 per person, many hotels will offer discounts or complimentary tea to their guests. Also, know that you’ll be served lots of food during the experience, so I encourage people to make their tea bookings for later in the day, and it will double as dinner.

Total food cost: $1,330 (based on free hotel breakfast, $40 for lunch x seven days, and $150 per day for dinner x seven days)

I have a strict rule with my kids that the trip itself is the treat, not all the kitschy souvenirs found in the gift shop of every major attraction. But London is a great place to shop for specialty items.

One of my favorite places to go for souvenirs or gifts is Fortnum & Mason, where you can buy some of England’s legendary tea and biscuits, perfectly packaged to bring home. And a stop at Hamley’s toy store is also a fabulous experience for the whole family to enjoy. We also enjoy browsing the many floors and departments at Harrods.

Total souvenir cost: $200 (based on each family member spending $50 while on the trip)

Travel Insurance

I would recommend protecting your trip with travel insurance . Pricing varies depending on your level of coverage, age, trip costs, and more. However, I would use $300-500 as a rough estimate.

Total Cost for a 7-day Family trip to London: $9,830

Bottom line is that the trip to London cost for a family of four would cost approximately $9,830 , or about $350 per person, per day . Your family could certainly spend less if you can utilize airline miles, score a great accommodation deal, cook your own meals, or focus your time on the free activities and landmarks in London instead of the pricier places to go.

That said, London is an expensive city, so it can be a challenge for families with an extremely tight budget. If you want an English countryside experience, I found very affordable inns and food in Northern England this past summer during my Hadrian’s Wall walking trip.

How much does it cost to go to London?

Visiting london read more:.

• 7 Day London itinerary
• 5 Festive things to do in London at Christmas
• Ultimate fan guide to Harry Potter attractions in London

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 18, 2023

1 thought on “How Much Does a Trip to London Cost? (2024 London Trip Budget)”

Love your transparency with the costs it is so helpful for those planning.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

The world’s best budget hotels that cost less than £100 per night

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We all want to travel in style, but most of us don’t have to stick to a budget when planning our holidays.

Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay in luxurious lodgings. You just need to know where to look.

There are some hotels that offer no-frills accommodation at bargain prices , and it’s possible to get a discount on your room if you book outside of peak season or in less popular locations.

On average, though, you’re looking at £200 a night for four-star hotel in London or £350 if you opt for a five-star location in the capital, while a luxury room will set you back $318 (£255) in New York City or €221 (£190) in Paris.

However, a new guide from travel writer Kate Leahy reveals 30 hidden gem hotels from around the world priced at less than £100 per night. Easy on the eye as well as your bank balance, the boutique locations she recommends look anything but cheap.

These are our favourites on the list (which you can see in full over on the Daily Mail site), proving bougie doesn’t need to break the bank.

Mollie’s Motel, Bristol and Oxfordshire

Here in the UK, one of the best budget hotels is Mollie’s Motel in Bristol and Oxfordshire, which is soon to open a third location in Manchester.

You can expect Hypnos mattresses, Dyson hairdryers and Cowshed products, with rooms designed by the team from Soho House – all from £70 a night for a double room.

Babel Belleville, Paris

Kate says: ‘Babel’s rooms are small but perfectly formed: Berber-influenced with patinated walls, antique furnishings and feature bed heads. A glass elevator makes the four floors accessible, including the massage room, restaurant and cocktail bar.’

It’s right in the heart of the action in the Belleville neighbourhood, between the 19th and 20th Arrondissements. Cafes, restaurants, bars and markets are all nearby, and rooms are priced from £98.

Hotel Not Hotel, Amsterdam

Rooms may be small at this boutique spot, but it’s super unique. You may just be placed in a room hidden behind a bookcase, and there’s a local tram cart in the lobby where you can get a drink.

Priced from £68 for a double, you can choose between a private or shared bathroom.

Hotel Galleria, Venice

There are only nine rooms at this Venice hotel, which is quintessentially Italian with art on the walls and ornate decor. Some even have a Juliet balcony looking out onto the Grand Canal.

Prices start from £86.

Boro Hotel, New York

Head to Queens and you can stay at Boro for £100 a night.

Its chic rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors and atmospheric pendant lighting, and Manhattan is within easy reach just over the East River.

Terminus Hotel, Pyrmont, Sydney

The Terminus Hotel Pyrmont offers nine boutique double rooms, two with private ensuite bathrooms and seven with shared bathroom access, priced from £92 per night.

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‘There’s a pretty courtyard deck and bar, as well as tables outside in what was previously the pub garden,’ says Kate in her guide.

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