10 Things to Do in London on a Budget You'll Love
London doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Some of the city's best experiences cost little or nothing at all, from world-famous museums to skyline views.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, these attractions prove you can experience London on a budget.
Highlights
Discover 10 of the best budget-friendly things to do in London
From free museums and markets to iconic landmarks and skyline views
Find the closest landmarks and how to reach them with our bus tours
What Are the Best Things to Do in London on a Budget?
London is full of experiences that offer incredible value. Some are completely free, while others cost little but leave lasting memories. Here are ten of the best things to do in London on a budget.
1. Explore the British Museum
Home to more than eight million objects, the British Museum is one of the world's greatest museums - and it's completely free to enter.
From the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies to ancient Greek sculptures, visitors can spend hours exploring thousands of years of history without buying a ticket. It's an ideal place to escape the weather while discovering some of humanity's greatest treasures.
Closest landmark: The British Museum (stop 46)
2. Wander Through Borough Market
You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy Borough Market.
One of London's oldest food markets is packed with artisan produce, colourful displays and tempting street food. Browse the stalls, soak up the lively atmosphere or enjoy an affordable lunch from one of the many independent traders.
It's one of the city's best places for people-watching and discovering local flavours.
Closest landmark: London Bridge (stop 34)
3. Visit Sky Garden
One of London's best panoramic views is completely free.
Located at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden offers sweeping views across the capital from its indoor gardens and observation decks. Entry is free, although advance booking is recommended due to its popularity.
Whether you visit during the day or at sunset, it's one of London's best-value experiences.
Closest landmark: Monument
4. Walk Along the South Bank
Stretching from Westminster to Tower Bridge, the South Bank is one of London's liveliest neighbourhoods.
Street performers, public art, riverside cafés and spectacular views make this one of the capital's best free walks. Along the way you'll pass the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge.
There's always something happening, making every visit a little different.
Closest landmark: London Eye (stop 30)
5. Watch the Changing of the Guard
Few London experiences feel more quintessentially British.
Outside Buckingham Palace, soldiers in their famous red tunics and bearskin hats perform the Changing of the Guard ceremony accompanied by a military band. The event is free to watch and remains one of London's most popular traditions.
Arrive early for the best viewing spot.
Closest landmark: Buckingham Palace (stop 19)
6. Discover Covent Garden
Covent Garden offers hours of entertainment without requiring an admission ticket.
Browse independent shops, admire the historic market building or simply enjoy the world-famous street performers who entertain crowds with music, comedy and acrobatics throughout the day.
It's one of the easiest places to spend an afternoon on a budget.
Closest landmark: Covent Garden (stop 32)
7. Picnic in a Royal Park
London's eight Royal Parks provide almost 5,000 acres of free green space to enjoy.
Whether you choose Hyde Park, Regent's Park or Greenwich Park, they're perfect for a picnic, a leisurely walk or simply escaping the city's busy streets for a while. Greenwich Park also rewards visitors with one of London's finest skyline views.
Closest landmark: Hyde Park Corner (stop 5) or Greenwich
8. Cross Millennium Bridge
Sometimes the simplest experiences are the most memorable.
Millennium Bridge offers one of London's most photographed views, perfectly framing St Paul's Cathedral across the River Thames. Continue across to Tate Modern or Shakespeare's Globe to extend your walk without spending a penny.
It's one of the city's best photo opportunities.
Closest landmark: St Paul's Cathedral (stop 33)
9. Browse Camden Market
Camden Market combines street food, vintage shopping, independent traders and canal-side views into one colourful destination.
Even if you're only browsing, there's plenty to discover, from live music and quirky artwork to handmade crafts and international food. It's a fantastic place to experience London's creative side on a budget.
Closest landmark: Camden Lock
10. Ride the Thames with a River Cruise
One experience that's worth budgeting for is seeing London from the water.
A river cruise offers a completely different perspective of landmarks including Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London. It's one of the most relaxing ways to see the city and is included with selected The Original Tour London bus tickets.
Closest landmark: Westminster Pier (stop 38) or Tower Pier
How Do You Get to London's Best Budget Attractions?
Our Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour stops near many of London's top attractions, making it easy to enjoy several activities in one day and plan a family trip to London on a budget.
Near The British Museum (British Museum)
Near London Bridge (Borough Market)
Near Monument (Sky Garden)
Near the London Eye (South Bank)
Near Buckingham Palace (Changing of the Guard)
Near Covent Garden (Covent Garden)
Near Hyde Park Corner (Hyde Park)
Near St Paul's Cathedral (Millennium Bridge)
Near Camden Lock (Camden Market)
Near Westminster Pier (River Cruise)
5 min read