London has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. The cost of accommodation, dining, nightlife and entertainment can burn a hole through one’s pocketbook if one is not careful; however, like any big city in the world, there are wonderful activities that are absolutely free and can provide for some of the most memorable experiences. The following are five recommendations for travelling in London on the cheap.
Street Performers
For world-class daily street performances, one should head directly to the West Piazza of Covent Garden Market. Every afternoon talented performers take to the streets to entertain the masses. Large crowds, people watching and the opportunity to even participate in some of the acts are just some of the features that make these shows a major draw. To ensure the utmost quality, every single performer has passed an audition/license for the privilege of being able to perform here. It’s a spectacle not to be missed and the best part is that it is absolutely FREE.
London Museums
It’s no secret that London has some of the best museums the world has to offer. The best part is that all of the major museums found throught the city are free, although some offer special exhibitions for a fee. There are no shortage to choose from but the one that is most highly recommended is the Museum of London. This museum features the history of London from modern times all the way back to its Roman period.
Street Market
London has plenty of diverse street markets on offer being such a cosmopolitan city. The three most highly regarded include Camden Market, Portobello Market and Greenwich Market. Don’t forget to check out some of the more diverse ethnic markets scattered throughout the city.
Changing of the Guard
It would simply be a mistake not to check out the historic changing of the guard that take place in the Forecourt of Buckingham Palace at 11:30 every day in the summer and every other day in the winter. To get the best views of the Queen’s Guard it is highly recommended one comes early to secure a plum spot.
If one is flying into the UK – with a desire to visit London – consider parking your vehicle at Edinburgh airport parking, Liverpool airport parking or Glasgow airport parking.
Parks
There are no shortage of wonderful parks in London for tourists and locals to enjoy. Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens is probably at the top of the list. Don’t forget to check out St. Jame’s Park for its stunning views of Buckingham Palace. Finally, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and the Diana Memorial Playground are also great options for one to consider.
The tips you have given here are so very handy. I visited London a couple of months back and discovered that it really is a very expensive place for sight seeing. But as you mentioned, everything does not come with a price tag. Out of these, I especially loved the street shows(of course one feels like and does hand out money at the end but then that’s voluntary appreciation) and parks.
Good to know that most of the places in London is free to visit . Thanks for this awesome tips
Great thanks for the tips, I am in London at the moment, will definitely do some of the things on this list!
I didn’t realize that most London museums are free! (I’ve been to London twice and sadly didn’t get a chance to visit too many museums…next time!). Great list, though! I firmly believe that you can really enjoy a city without paying a fortune.
Thanks for the tips! I’d never think about going to just go see street performers, but its a really awesome, and free, idea!
YOu’re welcome Jordan 🙂
Great informations about what to do in London, now it is the next city on my travel list 🙂
That’s great to hear! It’s a city with plenty to offer.
I miss London so much! I really enjoyed wandering around one of the world’s most unique city. I have plans of returning next year and i hope it will push through 😀
Mica, you’ve got a lot of great travel plans. Adding London to the mix sounds like a fantastic idea 🙂
Some good tips there. I wasn’t aware that London museums were free. Good to know…
Yeah, it’s a pleasant surprise. One of the only other cities that comes to mind is in HK but that’s only one day a week.
Great list… I miss London :]
I’d love to be in London right now with a plan to travel around Europe for several months 🙂
The museums alone are worth a trip. Add to that list the British Library and you’ve got an impressive collection of cultural relics.
Kris, that’s a great point! I missed out on a lot of other free things as well.
Hey good list, I recommend Portobello Road it’s great for window shopping, Borough Market is also worth a trip especially if you’re a foodie..
Becky, thanks for the great tips. I think you could live in London for years and not see and do everything.