Many are surprised to learn that there are numerous free and affordable activities to enjoy in London. The staff at the London Center, who have lived here for many years, will help students discover great deals, hidden gems, and other ways to make the most of their time in the city. Before arriving and meeting them, check out the information below. From food and art to music and other fun events, London offers plenty for those on a budget.
Tourist Spots: If you want to start your semester abroad with some of the main tourist spots that London has to offer, check out this interactive London Tourist Map.
Museums: Did you know that most museums in London are free to enter? The Natural History Museum, the British Museum, the Science Museum, Tate Britain, and Tate Modern—just to name a few—are all free to explore
Markets: London markets are perfect shopping destinations for everything from food and flowers to modern art, antiques, clothes, jewellery, and more! Here's a handy webpage for more on London Markets.
Parks: London boasts numerous green open spaces, all free to enjoy! Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Victoria Park, Greenwich Park, Hampstead Heath, and many more beautiful areas are open to the public for walking, running, cycling, or simply relaxing. Find out more about London Parks.
Food Shopping: Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Tesco are more affordable than smaller local stores. However, local street markets can offer great deals on fruits and vegetables, especially when they’re in season. For example, Brixton Street Market on Electric Avenue is a fantastic spot for fresh produce.
Coffee Shops: As in NYC and any other major city, you'll find coffee shops everywhere! There are chain coffee shops that you'll be well used to like Starbucks and Pret; other chains that are big here but you might be less familiar with like Nero, Costa or Gails; and then, of course, lots of independent coffee spots that you might prefer supporting. If you're a coffee connoisseur, here's an article listing the top 17 coffee spots in the city!
Events & More: Below are links to websites and apps that are excellent resources for discovering cheap and exciting events, exhibitions, deals, and more that London has to offer.
- Time Out is a website and app that serves as a comprehensive guide to everything happening in London, from art and theatre to LGBTQ+ events, music, and more.
- Londonist is another excellent website and app featuring plenty of ideas for things to do and see, including a regularly updated "Free and Cheap" section.
- London For Free is a website that provides information on free and affordable walks, bus tours, attractions, and more.
- Free London Events is a website that features a comprehensive list of free annual and daily events in the city.
- Visit London is a website that highlights numerous attractions in London that are free to explore.
- Secret London is an app designed to help you uncover the best events and experiences in London.
- Today Tix is a theatre ticket app that some may already be familiar with from NYC. If you’ve used the app before, simply update your location to London to access the best ticket deals for London theatre.
- Eventbrite is an app and online platform that offers tickets for a wide range of events, from concerts and festivals to workshops and conferences.
- GetYourGuide is an app and platform offering tours, activities, and experiences worldwide, from city tours to unique adventures.