Cheap things to do in London

Here are some cheap things that you can get up to in London.

Skiddle Staff

Last updated: 23rd Nov 2023

We are all in need of a weekend where we just don't spend that much money. London is full of expensive things to do but you can also have a good time for less too. We thought we'd pick out some cheap things to do in London that will give you plenty of enjoyment. Take a look at the list below.

 

Use a Bike Service

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Image credit: Yomex Owo (Unsplash) 

Across central London and beyond you'll find an army of bicycles begging to be used. From Santander Cycles to Lime Bikes, they are all over the place helping you to get around. Why not do laps of some landmarks from an entierly different perspective? And you can get fit at the same time. 

 

Find out more about Santander Cycles here

 


 

Visit Columbia Road Flower Market

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Image credit: Dan Rooney (Unsplash)

An endless amount of colour awaits you at Columbia Road Flower Market, where plants and flowers of all shapes and sizes gather each week. This would be a very good idea for a cheap date, as you can pop into some local independent stores too. 

 

Find out more about Columbia Road Flower Market here

 


 

Head to one of London's many parks

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London has a ridiculous amount of parks for you to discover, with some highlights being St James' Park, Regent's Park and Hyde Park. They offer you some quick exercise as well as some natural beauty to discover when you want some time away from the busier side of the city.

 

Learn more about London's different parks here

 


 

Explore a free museum

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Image credit: Kevin Mueller (Unsplash)

There's a large amount of free museums you can visit in London, including the Natural History Museum, one of the most iconic buildings in the whole city. You can also roam the halls of the National Gallery, the Science Museum, British Library and more all for the price of nothing.

 

You can find tickets for multiple free museums in London including the Natural History Museum, National Gallery and British Museum

 


  

Explore the flavours of Borough Market

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Image credit: Beth Macdonald (Unsplash)

Borough Market is one of the best places to go in London for a wide range of flavours, where fresh produce is served daily. You can find some amazing lunch options here as well as pick up some ingredients to elevate your next meal.

 

Find out more about Borough Market and the individual traders here

 


 

See famous resting places at Highgate Cemetery

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Image credit: Stuart Timms (Unsplash)

Highgate Cemetery is home to the resting places of some key historical figures from pop culture and beyond. Gaze at the resting place of Communist thinker Karl Marx and visit the grave of the late George Michael.

 

Find more information about Highgate Cemetary here

 


 

Head to one of London's Picturesque viewing sites

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Image credit: Timur Valiev (Unsplash)

There are spots all around London where you can see all of the iconic landmarks spread across the city. Some of the spots we recommend are Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath, Greenwich, Alexandra Palace and the view from the Shard. 

 


 

Take a tour through the TFL museum

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Image credit: Viktor Forgacs (Unsplash)

The TFL is a huge part of any Londoners life and it even has quite a lot of devoted fans. The TFL Museum is the place to go to learn all about the history about the transport network and their annual pass is great value for money for repeat visits.

 

Find out more about the TFL Museum here

 


 

Indulge in culture at the Tate Modern

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Image credit: Matthew Waring (Unsplash)

The Tate Modern has a bunch of free exhibits you can explore within it's huge structure. From ancient to more contemporary pieces, it is a learning experience for all who visit. They are regularly switching up the exhibits so you can enjoy repeat visits. 

 

Find out more about the Tate Modern here

 


 

Wild swimming at Hampstead Heath

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Hampstead Heath is more than just a beautiful place to walk around, you can get involved in the local activities too and wild swimming is a hugely popular activity. You can book a slot and jump in, with the activity said to be good for your health. We'd recommend waiting until the summer though.

 

Find out more about swimming at Hampstead Heath here

 


 

For all things London nightlife and student events click here. For the best student clubs and bars click here. We also have tips on the best free things to do in London and the best cheap places to eat.

 



 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

 

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