How to Travel London on a Budget Without Missing Out
2025-06-06
London has a reputation for being expensive, but that doesn’t mean you need to blow your budget to enjoy it. From free world-class attractions to smart travel hacks, you can explore the best of the city without missing out on the experience. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a few weeks, here’s how to make the most of London on a budget.
1. Get an Oyster Card or Use Contactless
One of the smartest things you can do as soon as you arrive: sort your travel.
- Use an Oyster card or contactless debit/credit card to tap in/out on buses, the Tube, Overground, and even some trains.
- Fares are automatically capped daily and weekly, so you never pay more than the maximum.
- Buses are even cheaper than the Underground and perfect for sightseeing above ground.
Tip: Avoid peak hours (6:30–9:30 am and 4–7 pm) for less crowded, cheaper journeys.
2. Visit Free Museums and Galleries
London is home to some of the best museums in the world—and most of them are free!
- British Museum – Ancient artefacts, including the Rosetta Stone
- Natural History Museum – Dinosaurs, blue whales, and immersive exhibits
- Tate Modern – Contemporary art with a great view of the Thames
- Victoria & Albert Museum – Fashion, design, and decorative arts
Donations are welcome, but entry is free, so take your time and explore.
3. Explore the City’s Green Spaces
London has over 3,000 parks, and many are historic attractions in their own right.
- Hyde Park – Rent a bike or boat, or visit Speaker’s Corner
- Regent’s Park – Home to beautiful gardens and an open-air theatre
- Hampstead Heath – Climb Parliament Hill for skyline views
- Greenwich Park – Straddle the Prime Meridian line for free
Pack a picnic or grab street food and enjoy a meal outdoors.
4. Eat Well (Without Spending a Fortune)
You don’t need to dine in fancy restaurants to enjoy London’s diverse food scene.
- Street food markets like Borough Market, Mercato Metropolitano, or Camden Market offer amazing international options for under £10.
- Grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and M&S offer meal deals (sandwich, snack, and drink) for around £4.
- Chinatown and Brick Lane offer affordable meals with authentic flavours.
Bonus tip: If you’re staying in a serviced apartment, you can cook your own meals and save even more.
5. Catch Theatre and Events for Less
London’s West End theatre is world-famous, but it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune.
- Check TodayTix and TKTS for discounted same-day tickets.
- Visit venues like The Globe Theatre, where standing tickets can be as low as £5.
- Look for free concerts, festivals, and exhibitions, especially in summer.
Many local pubs also host live music or comedy nights with no cover charge.
6. Take Advantage of Free Views
London’s skyline is stunning, and you don’t need to pay for the Shard or London Eye to enjoy it.
- Sky Garden – Free to enter, just book in advance online
- Primrose Hill – A short climb for amazing sunset views
- Tate Modern’s viewing platform – Free and central
- Greenwich Observatory Hill – Offers sweeping views of Canary Wharf
7. Stay Smart, Not Expensive
Accommodation is one of the biggest travel costs, but it doesn’t have to be.
Serviced apartments offer:
- More space than hotel rooms
- A kitchen to cook and save on meals
- Free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a more local experience
Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, serviced apartments are cost-effective and comfortable.
Final Tips to Stretch Your Budget
- Use free walking tours (just tip your guide!)
- Download city apps like Citymapper for cheap route planning
- Book major attractions online in advance, many offer discounts
- Travel off-season (Jan–March, Oct–Nov) for better rates and fewer crowds
London on a Budget = Rich in Experience
You don’t need to spend a fortune to fall in love with London. From iconic landmarks to local treasures, smart choices will help you make the most of every pound, without missing a thing.
Looking for affordable, stylish accommodation in London?
Browse our serviced apartments for short stays, with flexible rates and everything you need to feel at home in the city.
