By Kingfisher Visitor Guides
London is notorious for being one of the most expensive cities in the world, but that doesn't mean you can't explore the English capital on a budget! There's plenty of things you can do that aren't going to break the bank, and you will definitely still have plenty of fun. Here are our top tips for exploring this amazing city without splashing the cash.
Relax in one of London’s many parks
Hyde Park is one of the greatest city parks in the world
London is brimming with beautiful green spaces, and most of them are free for you to visit – perfect if you’re on a budget. From the 350-acre space that Hyde Park covers to the ponds, nature trail, and windmill that Wimbledon Common has to offer, there’s plenty of parks and nature to explore, and these spaces are beautiful places to spend a sunny day. Grab a picnic and a book and head on down to relax.
Visit some of the free galleries and museums
The British Museum boasts a collection of some 8 million works
A great way of enjoying London on a budget is to visit one of the many free galleries and museums that are scattered across the city. Fancy reliving the history of humankind? Head over to the British Museum to peruse their amazing collection of artefacts from all over the world. History not your thing? Pop into the National Gallery to be amazed by over 2,000 artworks dating all the way back to the Middle Ages – you will find something to suit every taste at this fantastic gallery! From books to aviation, science to army, London has a gallery or museum for everyone.
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Experience Changing the Guard
Make sure not to miss the famous Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Changing the Guard is one of the oldest and most familiar ceremonies associated with Buckingham Palace. The procession takes place when the Queen’s Guard finish their guard watch and hand over to the new guard. The handover is accompanied by a Guards band. The music played ranges from traditional military marches to songs from musical shows and even familiar pop songs. When the Queen is in residence, there are four sentries at the front of the building. When she is away there are two.
The Queen’s Guard usually consists of Foot Guards in full-dress uniform of red tunics and bearskins. If they have operational commitments, other infantry units such as the Brigade of Gurkhas take part instead. Guard Mounting at Buckingham Palace takes place in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace at 11am, and lasts about 30 minutes. There is no Guard Mounting in very wet weather. During the autumn and winter, Guard Mounting takes place on alternate days, but it is held daily during spring and summer.
Eat street food
Sample some street food at Shetlands Salt & Pepper Chilli Squid, Borough Market
London is full of amazing food vendors, and they’re a fantastic way to eat on the cheaper side. Head to one of the city’s famous markets, like Camden Market or the world-famous Borough Market, or stop at a stand as you’re exploring the streets, and you’re sure to find something delicious. With cuisines from all over the world within metres of each other, London’s street food vendors are truly highlighting the multiculturalism the city is so proud of.
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