London, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless attractions, often carries the reputation of being an expensive city to explore. However, with careful planning and a few insider tips, it’s possible to enjoy cheap family days out in London for less than £20. This guide will walk you through some of the best ways to have a fun, affordable day in the capital, making the most of everything this incredible city has to offer without breaking the bank.
Budget-Friendly Outings in London
Planning Your Day
To have a successful cheap family day out in London, it all starts with thoughtful planning. With the right approach, you can ensure your family enjoys a fulfilling day filled with adventure, learning, and fun without overspending.
Travel Off-Peak:
London’s public transport system is one of the most efficient in the world, but it can be costly if you’re not strategic. Travel during off-peak hours (generally after 9:30 AM and before 4:00 PM, and after 7:00 PM on weekdays) to take advantage of reduced fares. An Oyster Card or a contactless payment method is your best friend here, offering the cheapest rates on buses, trains, and the Tube.
Look for Family Discounts:
Many of London’s attractions offer family discounts that can significantly reduce the cost of admission. For example, family tickets are available at places like the London Zoo and various museums. These deals often include admission for two adults and two children, or one adult and multiple children, making them a perfect fit for budget-conscious families.
Book in Advance:
One of the simplest ways to save money is by booking tickets online in advance. Many attractions offer discounted rates for those who plan ahead, and some even provide additional perks like skip-the-line access. Websites such as VisitLondon or Groupon often have special deals on popular attractions, allowing you to enjoy more for less.
Bring Your Own Essentials:
London’s unpredictable weather means it’s wise to come prepared. Packing essentials such as umbrellas, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles can save you from unnecessary purchases throughout the day. Additionally, bringing snacks or a packed lunch can help you avoid overpriced food stalls, keeping your budget intact.
Planning Tip | Details |
---|---|
Travel Off-Peak | Save on public transport fares |
Use Oyster Cards | Get cheaper travel rates |
Look for Family Discounts | Reduced rates for family or group outings |
Book in Advance | Secure online deals ahead of your visit |
Bring Your Own Essentials | Pack snacks, water, and weather essentials to save money |
Transport Savings
Navigating London doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, getting around can be one of the easiest ways to stick to your budget, especially if you consider all the cost-effective options available.
Use Public Transport:
London’s public transport network is extensive and well-connected, making it easy to explore the city on a budget. The Oyster Card is to accessing these savings. With an Oyster Card, fares are capped daily, ensuring that you won’t spend more than a certain amount no matter how much you travel. This is particularly useful if you’re hopping from one attraction to another.
Explore on Foot:
London is a city meant for walking. Not only does walking allow you to discover hidden gems, but it’s also entirely free! There are numerous walking tours available, some of which are even free, where you can learn about the city’s history, architecture, and culture. Popular routes include walks along the South Bank, from Tower Bridge to Tate Modern, or through the historic streets of Westminster, where you can see iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Cycling Routes:
For a small fee, you can rent a bike from one of the many Santander Cycles docking stations around the city. Cycling is not only an eco-friendly way to travel, but it also allows you to cover more ground than walking. The Thames Path and Richmond Park offer scenic routes that are perfect for a family bike ride.
Transport Savings | Benefits |
---|---|
Use Public Transport | Cost-effective, capped daily fares with Oyster Card |
Explore on Foot | Free walking tours, discover hidden gems |
Rent a Bike | Affordable, eco-friendly, covers more ground than walking |
Free and Cheap Attractions
London is a city brimming with world-class attractions, many of which are surprisingly affordable or even free. Below are some must-visit spots that won’t put a dent in your wallet.
Free Museums
One of the greatest things about London is the number of free museums available to the public. These institutions not only offer educational value but also provide a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
1. The British Museum: Home to millions of objects spanning thousands of years, the British Museum offers a journey through human history. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures, this museum is a treasure trove of cultural artifacts, all accessible free of charge.
2. The Natural History Museum: A favorite among families, the Natural History Museum houses exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to the human body. The iconic dinosaur skeletons, the blue whale model, and interactive exhibits make it a perfect destination for curious minds.
3. The Science Museum: Located next to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum offers hands-on exhibits that bring science and technology to life. Children and adults alike can enjoy interactive displays that cover topics from space exploration to the human brain.
Museum | Highlights | Cost |
---|---|---|
The British Museum | Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures, Egyptian Mummies | Free |
The Natural History Museum | Dinosaur skeletons, blue whale model, interactive exhibits | Free |
The Science Museum | Hands-on exhibits, space exploration, technology displays | Free |
Walking Tours
Exploring London on foot not only saves money but also allows you to experience the city’s rich history and culture up close. Several companies offer free walking tours, where you can tip the guide at the end based on your satisfaction.
1. The Historic London Tour: This tour takes you through the heart of London, covering major landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. It’s an excellent way to see the city’s iconic sites while learning about their history from knowledgeable guides.
2. The East End Street Art Tour: For something a bit different, explore the vibrant street art scene in East London. This tour takes you through Shoreditch, where you’ll see works by famous street artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey. It’s a great way to experience London’s alternative culture.
3. The Jack the Ripper Tour: For those interested in the darker side of history, the Jack the Ripper tour offers a glimpse into London’s notorious past. As you walk through the streets of Whitechapel, the guide will unravel the mystery surrounding the infamous serial killer.
Tour | Route Highlights | Cost |
---|---|---|
Historic London Tour | Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey | Free/tip-based |
East End Street Art Tour | Shoreditch, Banksy art, vibrant street culture | Free/tip-based |
Jack the Ripper Tour | Whitechapel, historical murder sites, crime stories | Free/tip-based |
Gallery Hopping
London is home to some of the world’s best art galleries, many of which offer free admission. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for a new experience, gallery hopping can be an enriching and budget-friendly activity.
1. Tate Modern: Housed in a former power station, Tate Modern is one of the most visited art galleries in the world. It features contemporary works from artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The vast Turbine Hall and the stunning views from the Blavatnik Building are must-see highlights.
2. The National Gallery: Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to over 2,300 paintings, including masterpieces by Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Turner. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone who wants to immerse themselves in classic art.
3. The Serpentine Galleries: Nestled in Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine Galleries are known for their cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions. The gallery often features work by living artists, offering a fresh perspective on modern art.
Gallery | Featured Artists | Cost |
---|---|---|
Tate Modern | Picasso, Warhol, Hockney | Free |
The National Gallery | Van Gogh, da Vinci, Turner | Free |
The Serpentine Galleries | Contemporary artists, rotating exhibitions | Free |
Historic Landmarks
London’s streets are lined with historic landmarks that tell the story of the city’s rich past. Many of these landmarks are free to explore or can be admired from the outside.
1. Buckingham Palace: While entry to the palace itself can be pricey, viewing the Changing of the Guard from outside the gates is a free spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a quintessential London experience that offers a glimpse into British tradition.
2. The Houses of Parliament: Another iconic landmark is the Houses of Parliament, with its stunning Gothic architecture and the famous Big Ben clock tower. Guided tours are available at a cost, but the exterior can be admired for free.
3. Tower Bridge: Tower Bridge is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but also an architectural marvel. You can walk across the bridge for free and take in the stunning views of the River Thames. For a fee, you can also visit the exhibition inside the bridge, but the views alone are worth the trip.
Landmark | Features | Cost |
---|---|---|
Buckingham Palace | Changing of the Guard, British tradition | Free (outside) |
The Houses of Parliament | Gothic architecture, Big Ben | Free (outside) |
Tower Bridge | Iconic views, architectural marvel | Free (walk across) |
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
One of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to spend a cheap family day out in London is by visiting its numerous parks and outdoor spaces. These green oases provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and offer a variety of activities for all ages.
Park Picnics
London’s parks are perfect for a relaxing family picnic. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a day outdoors without spending much more than the cost of a packed lunch.
1. Hyde Park: As one of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park offers plenty of space for picnicking, playing, and exploring. The Serpentine Lake, Speaker’s Corner, and the Diana Memorial Fountain are popular spots to visit.
2. Regent’s Park: Regent’s Park is known for its beautifully manicured gardens and open spaces. It’s also home to the London Zoo, making it a great spot for families. Bring a blanket, some sandwiches, and enjoy a day surrounded by nature.
3. Greenwich Park: For stunning views of the London skyline, head to Greenwich Park. It’s a great place for a picnic, with ample space for kids to run around. After lunch, visit the nearby Royal Observatory or take a stroll through the historic Greenwich Market.
Park | Highlights | Cost |
---|---|---|
Hyde Park | Serpentine Lake, Speaker’s Corner, Diana Memorial Fountain | Free |
Regent’s Park | Gardens, London Zoo, open spaces | Free |
Greenwich Park | London skyline views, Royal Observatory | Free |
Garden Explorations
London is home to several beautiful gardens that offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Some charge a small entry fee, but the experience is well worth the cost.
1. Kew Gardens: Kew Gardens, located in southwest London, is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world. While there is an entry fee, it’s relatively low compared to other attractions, and the gardens offer a full day’s worth of exploration with over 50,000 living plants, glasshouses, and galleries.
2. Chelsea Physic Garden: Founded in 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is London’s oldest botanical garden. It’s a hidden gem that many visitors overlook, but it’s a fantastic spot for families interested in plants and herbal medicine. The garden has a small entrance fee, but it’s well worth the visit.
3. The Kyoto Garden: Located within Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is a tranquil Japanese-style garden featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and carefully manicured landscapes. It’s free to enter and offers a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Garden | Features | Cost |
---|---|---|
Kew Gardens | 50,000 plants, glasshouses, galleries | Low-cost |
Chelsea Physic Garden | Historical garden, herbal medicine | Low-cost |
Kyoto Garden | Japanese-style garden, waterfalls, koi ponds | Free |
Children’s Playgrounds
London’s parks are also home to some fantastic playgrounds where kids can burn off energy and parents can relax.
1. The Diana Memorial Playground: Located in Kensington Gardens, this playground was inspired by the story of Peter Pan. It features a giant pirate ship, teepees, and plenty of sand for imaginative play. The playground is gated and staffed, making it a safe environment for children.
2. Coram’s Fields: Coram’s Fields is a unique park and playground in Bloomsbury that is specifically designed for children. The park includes a variety of play equipment, sports fields, and even a small petting zoo. Adults are only allowed entry if they are accompanied by a child, ensuring it remains a child-friendly space.
3. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo: While there is a small entry fee, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo offers much more than just a playground. Kids can see a variety of animals up close, including monkeys, meerkats, and lemurs, and enjoy play areas that are integrated with the zoo’s exhibits.
Playground | Special Features | Cost |
---|---|---|
The Diana Memorial Playground | Pirate ship, sand play, safe environment | Free |
Coram’s Fields | Play equipment, sports fields, petting zoo | Free |
Battersea Park Children’s Zoo | Zoo animals, integrated play areas | Low-cost |
Inexpensive Family Days
Seasonal Activities
London’s seasons bring a variety of unique activities that are often budget-friendly or completely free. Whether it’s summer festivals or winter light displays, there’s always something happening in the city.
1. Summer Festivals: During the summer months, London comes alive with festivals celebrating music, culture, and food. Many of these events are free to attend, such as the Notting Hill Carnival, which is one of the largest street festivals in Europe, or the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, known for its outdoor performances and art installations.
2. Winter Lights: Winter in London is magical, with Christmas lights, markets, and seasonal events throughout the city. The light displays on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are a must-see and are free to enjoy. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is another popular event, where you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without spending a fortune.
3. Spring Blooms: Springtime in London is all about blooming flowers and beautiful gardens. Visit the Chelsea Flower Show (tickets are required but can be bought at a discount if purchased early) or simply enjoy the city’s public parks, where you can see cherry blossoms and other spring blooms.
Season | Activity | Cost |
---|---|---|
Summer | Notting Hill Carnival, Greenwich+Docklands Festival | Free |
Winter | Christmas lights, Winter Wonderland, markets | Free/Low-cost |
Spring | Chelsea Flower Show, public parks | Free/Low-cost |
Hidden Gems
London is full of hidden gems that provide unique, budget-friendly experiences. These lesser-known spots often offer a more intimate and relaxed environment than the city’s popular tourist attractions.
1. Local Libraries: Many of London’s local libraries host free events, workshops, and activities for children and families. The Barbican Library and the British Library often have special exhibitions and readings that are free to attend. These spaces also offer a quiet place to relax with a book or learn something new.
2. Historic Churches: London’s historic churches are not only places of worship but also architectural wonders that tell the story of the city’s past. St. Paul’s Cathedral is a famous example, but other churches like St. Mary-le-Bow and St. Bride’s Church are equally impressive and often free to visit.
3. Scenic Cycle Paths: For a peaceful escape, consider cycling along one of London’s many scenic cycle paths. The Thames Path, running along the river from Richmond to the heart of the city, offers beautiful views and a safe environment for families. Other great cycling routes include Regent’s Canal and the Greenway in East London.
Hidden Gem | Highlights | Cost |
---|---|---|
Local Libraries | Free events, exhibitions, reading spaces | Free |
Historic Churches | Architectural wonders, historical significance | Free |
Scenic Cycle Paths | Thames Path, Regent’s Canal, Greenway | Free |
Saving Tips and Tricks
Here are some practical tips to help you save even more on your cheap family days out in London:
1. Use Budget Apps: There are several apps available that can help you find the best deals and free activities in London. Citymapper is an essential tool for navigating the city efficiently, while Groupon and Time Out often feature discounts on attractions and events.
2. Check Online Deals: Before heading out, it’s worth checking online for any special offers. Websites like Wowcher and LivingSocial frequently offer discounted tickets to popular attractions, while sites like VisitLondon provide up-to-date information on free events happening around the city.
3. Bring Packed Lunches: Dining out in London can be expensive, especially for families. One of the simplest ways to save money is by bringing your own food. Pack a lunch, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during your day out, avoiding the need to spend on expensive meals
.4. Take Advantage of Free Trials: Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted admission on certain days or during specific hours. Researching and planning your visit around these times can help you experience more without spending extra.
Saving Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use Budget Apps | Citymapper for navigation, Groupon for discounts |
Check Online Deals | Wowcher, LivingSocial, VisitLondon for special offers |
Bring Packed Lunches | Avoid expensive meals by packing food |
Free Trials | Visit during free or discounted admission times |
Accessibility and Safety
When planning a family day out, it’s essential to consider accessibility and safety, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably and securely.
1. Accessibility Options: Many of London’s attractions and public spaces are designed with accessibility in mind. The Transport for London (TfL) website provides detailed information on accessible routes, stations, and facilities. Attractions like the British Museum and the Tate Modern also offer wheelchair access and other services to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
2. Safety Measures: London is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take precautions, especially when traveling with children. Make sure to stick to well-lit and populated areas, keep personal belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings. Many attractions and parks have security staff on site to ensure a safe environment for visitors.
3. Feedback Reviews: Before visiting any attraction, it’s helpful to read feedback reviews from other families. Websites like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews can provide insights into what to expect, helping you plan a day that meets your family’s needs and interests.
Consideration | Details |
---|---|
Accessibility Options | Wheelchair access, accessible routes, TfL information |
Safety Measures | Stick to well-lit areas, secure belongings, stay aware |
Feedback Reviews | TripAdvisor, Google Reviews for insights and recommendations |
Wallet-Friendly Tours of London
Exploring Cultural Spots
London’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, offering numerous opportunities for families to explore art, history, and education without spending a fortune.
1. Cultural Centers: The Southbank Centre is one of London’s most prominent cultural hubs, offering a range of free exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year. Whether it’s an art installation or a music concert, there’s always something happening that the whole family can enjoy.
2. Public Lectures: Several institutions, including Gresham College and The British Academy, offer free public lectures on a wide range of topics. These events are not only educational but also provide a unique experience that can be both enlightening and entertaining for older children and adults alike.
3. Art Installations: London is known for its public art installations, which are often free to view. The Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square is home to rotating contemporary art pieces, while places like the Barbican and King’s Cross frequently feature large-scale installations that are open to the public.
Cultural Spot | Highlights | Cost |
---|---|---|
Southbank Centre | Free exhibitions, performances, events | Free |
Public Lectures | Gresham College, The British Academy | Free |
Art Installations | Fourth Plinth, Barbican, King’s Cross | Free |
Kid-Friendly Activities
Finding activities that cater specifically to children can make your day out even more enjoyable. Here are some kid-friendly spots that are both affordable and fun.
1. Kid Zones: Coram’s Fields is a unique park in Bloomsbury where only adults accompanied by children are allowed. It’s a safe, child-focused environment with playgrounds, sports fields, and even a small animal farm. It’s an ideal spot for families looking to relax and let the kids play freely.
2. Family-Friendly Spots: The Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is inspired by the story of Peter Pan and features a large pirate ship, sensory trail, and various play sculptures. It’s a magical place for kids to explore and engage in imaginative play.
3. Children’s Museums: The Museum of London Docklands is a hidden gem that offers interactive exhibits and activities for children. It’s free to enter and provides a fascinating look at the history of London’s docks and their role in the city’s development. The museum also has a dedicated play area for younger children.
Kid-Friendly Spot | Special Features | Cost |
---|---|---|
Coram’s Fields | Playgrounds, sports fields, animal farm | Free |
Diana Memorial Playground | Pirate ship, sensory trail, play sculptures | Free |
Museum of London Docklands | Interactive exhibits, dedicated play area | Free |
Conclusion
London may have a reputation for being expensive, but with careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy cheap family days out in London for less than £20. From free museums and walking tours to park picnics and local events, the city offers countless budget-friendly activities that will keep the entire family entertained. So, pack a lunch, grab your Oyster Card, and explore everything London has to offer without breaking the bank. Remember, the successful budget-friendly day out is planning ahead, taking advantage of free and discounted attractions, and being open to exploring new and lesser known parts of the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these tips and ideas will help you make the most of your time in London while keeping your expenses low.