Pack your trainers and prepare to walk this mega Capital city. The Underground is safe, reliable, clean and efficient but you miss so much if you don’t pound London’s pavements.
Everyone believes London is expensive, over-priced and only for the rich. Follow my budget conscious guide for the travelling teacher to ensure you don’t spend more than you need to but ensuring maximum fun in London.
Borough Market
Fancy a free breakfast? Start your day with a historic visit to Borough Market, one of the oldest and largest food markets in London. Head down early for a free fill as the market stall holders offer samples & delicious tastes from all over the World.
Hampstead Heath
A hill with a view! Hike off your calories with the best free view in the city, with a trip to Hampstead Heath. I have paid a lot for the experience of the view from The Shard, but this is my favourite view of all. Judy Dench was filmed in “Notes on a Scandal” here. Sit on the same park bench & watch London play out below with its magnificent skyline. No visit to the “Heath” is complete without a picnic rug, Frisbee and a swim in the open air swimming ponds.
Portobello Road
Head to Portobello Road to haggle for antiques and second hand clothes. On Saturday’s Portobello Road market is a throw-back to the “Swinging Sixties” and you can negotiate a slice of London’s history for a fraction of the price compared to the stores on Oxford Street.
Harrods
Window shop until you drop! No trip to London is complete without a walk around Harrods, dating back to the early 18th century the building alone is spectacular. Stroll down Carnaby Street and tour the independent stores and bustling boutiques.
Camden
Head to Camden Market for all things “alternative” – grab yourself some jewellery, music, clothing, foods and explore the former stomping ground of Amy Winehouse.
Culture
Most of the City’s museums are free for everyone. Explore the National History Museum or National Portrait Gallery and wander art galleries at no expense. Always check the latest “Time Out London” app or magazine to see who is exhibiting and what cultural events are happening in the Capital.
Famous Landmarks
Nelson’s Column , London Bridge, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, South bank, St Paul’s and Buckingham Palace can all be photographed for free from the outside. My top tip is to head to the new shopping centre “One New Change”, right next to St Paul’s. Take a break here, relax in the rooftop bar and admire the River Thames and St Paul’s iconic dome for the cost of a drink.
