London has a reputation as an expensive city, a city which takes more than a little spending money to enjoy properly. However, while some prices may indeed be steeper, there are many reasons to visit London that won't cost you a penny. There is a wealth of culture, art, and nightlife in London that is completely free, and whole other parts of London which are much cheaper than the traditionally trendy areas, but without being any less exciting. For the discerning visitor, London on a budget can be as good, if not better, than London's high life.
First of all, for those looking for cheap day-time activities, it is worth noting that most of London's major museums are entirely free to the public. There is a museum for every interest group, whether it's the Science Museum, one of the biggest and best in Britain or the Natural History Museum, there are a range of different exhibitions which can all be enjoyed without spending a fortune.
It's not just the museums that are free; there are also many galleries which are open for the public. The Serpentine Gallery in Kensington offers primarily modern art, or if your taste runs more to the archaic, Kenwood House in Hampstead Heath offers a display of many outstanding paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. There are various other galleries around London, also offering fantastic examples of different art forms, including the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. For those visitors who want to see more of London's late night culture, there are also plenty of cheap options available.
Free comedy shows run at select venues around London, including the Camden Head, which regularly hosts open mic nights, and live amateur comedy acts. There is also the King's Cross Social Club, which puts on acts that are too alternative for the regular run of comedy clubs – novelty guaranteed at the very least. If you are looking for something a bit different, or comedy isn't your thing, the Cellar Door club runs free cabaret most nights, offering a range of riske burlesque performances by a variety of talented performers – all in a stylish 1930s styled environment. If you are willing to look for it there is a great deal of variety in London for a traveler on a budget, and between modern art and cabaret, visitor are guaranteed to find something they enjoy.
If you are looking for inexpensive holiday options, or are just looking for a weekend away, London offers many opportunities to enjoy yourself at little cost. Accommodation in London is also cheap, especially if you book well in advance, and cheap London hotel can be found easily.
Jesse Wallace writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.