London's best budget-friendly attractions from Tower Bridge to the V&A

11 April 2023 , 09:05

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London makes for a brilliant city break (Image: Getty Images)

London has earned a reputation as being an expensive city in recent decades - but it's actually fairly easy to visit the English capital without making a big dent in your savings.

A large number of London's best attractions are actually free, or can easily be visited on a budget. Meanwhile there are plenty of London hotels a stone's throw away from public transport or key attractions, whether you're after a cosy B&B or want a hotel that's got all the basics for a base from which to go exploring.

Hotels.com has a huge range of London hotels to choose from - including some luxury options for those who don't want to splurge or mark a special occasion.

To give you a helping hand in planning a cheap London break, we've put a guide on some of the best free attractions not to miss, as well as the ones where you can still explore on a budget.

Best free attractions in London

London has heaps of brilliant budget-friendly attractions (Getty)

London is full of iconic landmarks you can visit without needing to spend a penny. For example you can simply head over to the likes of Big Ben, Trafalgar Square or Piccadilly Circus, or indulge with a bit of window shopping at the likes of Carnaby Street and Regent's Street.

Holidaymakers feel guilty for putting feet up and doing nothing while on holiday

Then of course there are the museums; the V&A, Science Museum, British Museum and the Natural History Museum are all completely free to visit, although you can leave a donation at the entrance if you wish.

Meanwhile head over to Covent Garden where you can soak up the atmosphere from the quirky market stalls to live performers and magicians. Just a few minutes' stroll away sits Leicester Square where, if you're lucky, you may see some of the A-list at one of its glitzy film premieres.

Best cheap things to see in London

London has some attractions where if you want to go inside, you'll need to buy a ticket. For example attractions such as Buckingham Palace, theTower of London or the London Eye are priced at approximately £30 per adult - it can vary and there are ways to get discounts such as booking a family offer or booking in advance online.

The good news is that if you're not too fussed about going inside, these can be easily admired from outside on a free walking trail - and that includes plenty of photo opportunities.

It's also worth keeping your eyes peeled for family deals or discount codes, as these attractions often have offers throughout the year.

If you are planning on exploring the main sights, there are plenty of cheap hotels near the biggest attractions which could help you save a few quid when it comes to getting public transport.

Julie Delahaye