Exploring London on a Budget

“London” and “budget” don’t typically go together. But fear not! It can be done. Contrary to popular belief, London offers a good amount for those on a tight budget. From theater performances to museums, lodging and transport. Most of these conveniences are not hard to find.

Theater Discounts

Find Cheap Tickets to Any Show

Going to the theater doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Explore the ticket booths around Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square. Want to see a show in the West End? Check out Tkts booths. This half price ticket booth is officially operated by the Society of London Theatre. Royal Court Theatre Company in Sloane Square (Chelsea) offers reduced priced standing room only tickets an hour before each performance. You can also visit the The London Theatre Company to check out discounts and special rates. If you’re going by yourself, catch a major deal by arriving at the theater house 90 minutes before the performance. When people return tickets, the ticket office resells them at bargain rates.

Museums

They’re free! No catch. London is one of the few cities that opens its museums to the public at no cost. Get lost for hours at the Science Museum, the National Gallery, Tate Modern, the Natural History Museum, and the Greenwich Royal Observatory. There’s a museum for every taste. Some museums do ask for a voluntary donation to help preserve the collections. Here is a full list of London Museums.

Lodging

Looking for a cheap stay? Hostels are the way to go. As in most European cities, hostels offer great discounts for visitors staying more than one day. Check out St. Christopher’s Village near London Bridge. Often recognized as a top hostel, St. Christopher’s offers three locations near London Bridge depending on your interests. There is also Astor Museum Inn. Astor Museum is conveniently located near the British Museum, Covent Garden and Oxford Street. Of course, a hostel might not suit you- especially if you’re traveling with family. In that case, research hotels in advance- and consider traveling in the off season.

More Than Just a Museum

Getting Around

The London Underground is one of the best public transportation systems in the world.  Buying the Oyster card greatly reduces your cost per ride on the tube and buses. If you don’t want to hop on the tube, London is a perfect city for walking. Check out these walking guides. New London Tours provides free guided walking tours, which last 2-2 1/2 hours and give a humorous and historical look at prominent sites. Take a stroll along the River Thames or relax in a beautiful park. Once you start exploring the city, it’s hard to stop.