Top Budget-Friendly Attractions For Tourists in London

Are you looking for a range of different activities to do during your time in London but don’t want to pay too much quid? London, being one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in the world, is not known for being too friendly on the wallet, but if you plan your activities well, you can get a world-class experience without breaking the bank. So, for a list of brilliant budget-friendly attractions for tourists in London, keep on reading because that’s what this article is all about.

1.   Visit Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

You’re going to London, so of course you have to visit Big Ben! The iconic clocktower, located at the Houses of Parliament, is called the Elizabeth Tower, but everyone fondly knows it as Big Ben – which is actually the name of the Great Bell. You can visit the Houses of Parliament for free, but if you’d like a closeup of London’s beloved clock tower, you can also book a tour where you’ll climb up all 334 steps to the top.

2.   Watch the sunset from the Sky Garden

As far as sites go, London has a lot to offer, but for a breathtaking (and free!) skyline experience overlooking the Square Mile, you need to visit the Sky Garden. It’s perched atop a skyscraper and is London’s highest public garden, encased in a three-storey high dome. It’s the perfect place to get a peak of London from above, surrounded by gorgeous foliage. The Sky Garden offers a range of observation decks, landscaped gardens and even an open-air terrace. It’s completely free to enter; however, you will need to book a slot in advance. We recommend watching the sunset.

3.   Take a tour of Tower Bridge

Another iconic London landmark that you cannot miss is the Tower Bridge. This is one tourist attraction that is open almost every day of the year (363 to be exact), and here you’ll be able to see the Tower Bridge Exhibition and the spectacular Victorian Engine rooms and learn everything about Victorian engineering. A highlight of this attraction is the high-level walkways, which, at 42 metres above the River Thames, offer visitors gorgeous views of London.

4.   Stroll around the Mayfield Lavender Farm

For anyone who finds themselves in London between June and August, visiting Mayfield Lavender Farm is a delightfully budget-friendly experience that will captivate all your senses, and it’s a beautiful escape from all the hustle and bustle of the city. For just a few quid, you can also go for a tractor ride tour around the field.

5.   Visit a Museum or an Exhibition

London is steeped in history, and the British Museum and The National History Museum combine a unique collection of artifacts and exhibitions from cultures from all across the world. Even those who aren’t typically interested in visiting museums can’t help but stand in awe as there are so many collections that may pique one’s attention.

6.   Explore London by bike

Fancy being more active on your trip to London but don’t want to have to walk everywhere? The perfect alternative is to rent a Santander bike. You can cycle through the famous monuments with a choice of three impressive loops, which will show you some of the most iconic London attractions from a unique perspective for a few pounds per 30 minutes. The three routes include the following:

• The Royal Loop
• The Thames Loop
• The Hyde Loop

7.   Cruise down the River Thames by Uber boat

A unique way to explore London is by travelling on the Thames, and Uber boats have made this a wonderful experience. By hopping on an Uber boat, you’ll have a choice of 21 stops between Woolwich Pier and Putney Pier, and because of the fleet of catamarans being so available and with so many of the famous landmarks located along the river, it really does make it the most ideal and scenic way of getting around London. Some of the best stops to check out include Chelsea Harbour, London Bridge City, and the London Eye on our list of budget-friendly attractions for tourists in London.

Final Thoughts

London has so much to offer, so don’t let the conversion rates of the pound put you off enjoying your visit to The Metropolis. With our list of fun, budget-friendly activities, you’re sure to have a smashing time, and it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Spot something to do that seems fun? Stay budget friendly by keeping your data roaming charges low with one of the best eSIMs for the UK, then head online while you’re in London to find cheaper advance tickets or discounts. Another key to doing London on a budget is finding the best rate for British pounds – so do your research and watch the markets to know when to convert your dollars to pounds.