London On A Budget – It Can Be Done!

Virgin Vacations offers many great London packages – for amazing prices.  Yet, even with these inexpensive packages, you may be hesitant about visiting London because of its reputation as an expensive city (in fact – it is often on the list of 10 most expensive places to visit!).  Well, not to worry – with these tips, you can visit London and still return with a few ‘pounds’ in your wallet.

Traveling Around – Your best bet is to purchase a Travelcard to get around the city.  The Travelcard allows you to travel effortlessly and economically around London’s Public Transport network.  A seven day pass costs around £43, but it gets you on London’s buses and underground on the infamous Tube.  For an additional £50, you can also purchase a London Pass at the same time you purchase your Travelcard.  The London Pass is worth over £500 in entrance fees and associated benefits! 

Museums – If you’ve purchased a London Pass, then you’ll find the entrance to many of the museums is included on that card.  In addition, most of the major museums do not charge admission, although donations are appreciated.  Here are a few to check out:


Theatre – While theatre admission isn’t free, you can get deep discounts by buying your seats at the TKTS booth, located in Leicester Square from noon to 3 pm daily.  Discounts are from 30 to 50 percent off, often with terrific seats.  If you have your heart set on seeing the latest show – you are better off buying advanced tickets since the TKTS booth usually only has seats for the longer running shows.

Eating Out – Yes, dining in London can be terribly expensive.  However, there are cheaper dining alternatives!  Due to the diversity of the residents in London, there is a haven of ethnic restaurants to choose from.  Here are just a few to consider:

  • Hereford Arms in the Kensington neighborhood is a wonderful pub with a great menu and daily specials.  The ambience is very British and the service is terrific!

  • Chowki, an Indian restaurant in central London (just off Piccadilly Circus) offers amazing cuisine and very reasonable prices.

  • Rock and Sole Place on Endell St. features delicious fish and chips and a varied menu.  If the weather is nice, opt for the picnic tables outside.

Markets – There are plenty of markets to wander through during your visit.  Here are two of my favorites!
  • Convent Market – Unbelievably, a market has existed at this spot since Roman times!  It has a festive atmosphere, buskers to entertain you and it is a terrific place to people watch.  Be sure to check out the stalls in the Apple Market section, which sells everything from British made jewelry to clothing and artwork.  There are plenty of cafes and bistros should hunger strike while shopping.  Admission is free.

  • Portobello Road Market – Claiming to be the largest antiques market in the world, you could spend days poking around the collectibles, handicrafts and British designer clothing.  Outdoor vendors sell fresh flowers, honey, fruits and veggies.  Restaurants and cafes abound so it is a great place to head to spend the day.  Admission is free.

So it is possible to have fun in London without blowing your budget.  To help you stick to your budget, be sure to do some research beforehand and make a list of the places you want to visit.  I hope you get to visit London soon; it really is a remarkable city!

Posted by on 07/20 at 01:30 PM

Next entry: You Can Travel While Pregnant!

Previous entry: Five Relationship Travel Tips!

<< Back to main