The British pound has been somewhat kinder to the U.S. dollar lately, hovering at about $1.55.
But the reality is that the dollar is still wobbly overseas, especially in the UK. That may leave Anglophiles wondering if the costs of lodging, shopping and pub-hopping, will turn a London jaunt into a modern-day Dickens tale.
We’ve scoped out ways for travelers to have a jolly good time, and experience a taste of London’s luxe side while spending less than you may have anticipated.
SOME OF THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE (AND LONDON) ARE FREE
The good new is that many of London’s most iconic experiences are still free. Even if you’re a repeat visitor, it’s worth spend a day or two exploring the major sights without putting any strain on your wallet.
It doesn’t cost anything to walk to popular tourist spots such as Piccadilly Circus, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Tower Bridge. Many of London’s major art galleries and museums are free of charge.
Nature lovers stroll through Regent Park, while Covent Garden is simply a nice part of town to explore on foot, with a bustling market featuring eateries, goods, and an array of sights and sounds.
In addition to the traditional Changing of the Guard outside of Buckingham Palace is another historic freebie: the Ceremony of the Keys. A 700-year-old tradition, it takes place nightly at the Tower of London. You’ll love it when the Chief Yeoman Warder, wearing a bonnet and carrying a candle, locks up the main gate and delivers the keys to the Resident Governor of the Tower. Tickets are required; they’re free, but must be booked in advance.
Kensington Palace is one of London’s royal residences and Princess Diana’s former home.
From tales of historic characters, to tours of rooms that seem to go on endlessly, to sprawling Kensington Gardens adjacent to the Palace (free to explore), it’s a dreamy old-world way to spend an afternoon. The gift shop carries some whimsical souvenirs, from jars of champagne orange marmalade to pencils topped with a tiny golden crown.
In late March, Kensington will become The Enchanted Palace in an unusual exhibition. Hot fashion designers like Vivienne Westwood will create spectacular installations, taking their cues from the palace and the princesses who called it home. Contemporary designs will be displayed next to historic items from the Royal Collection and Kensington’s Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, together with dresses worn by Diana, Princess of Wales and Princess Margaret. Entrance is included in the Kensington Palace ticket price, which is about £12.
Look at London in a whole new way: Off the Brochure Travel Guide: London
BEYOND THE TOURIST HAUNTS
Visiting London isn’t just about the Zone 1 experiences in the most touristed parts of town. There are plenty of diverse neighborhoods outside of the city center that are easily accessed via London’s public transport network. (Tip: Purchase an Oyster card and ride as far and as long as your money will take you.)
South London’s Brixton neighborhood is populated by Brits of African and Caribbean origin. While the area has changed over the years and is becoming gentrified, this area is particularly known for its busy nightlife with myriad clubs, bars and live music joints.
Brick Lane is essentially a very long street in East London that is packed full of South Asian restaurants—it’s the center of London’s Bangladeshi community, hence its nickname “Banglatown.” Affordable options abound on Brick Lane, from dirt-cheap curry houses to authentic sweet shops.
Peckham, in South London, is a hugely diverse area with a large African community and an array of artist studios and the notable South London Gallery. This area has had its economic problems, but has undergone extensive urban renewal in recent years.
London’s South Bank is another must-see. This section of town is an established cultural hub, with plenty of options in terms of theater, galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops. Even if you don’t spend a dime, it’s a fun and funky part of town to spend an afternoon simply people-watching and window-shopping.
For more London neighborhood fun, don’t miss Suzy Gershman’s Postcard from Paddington: London’s Best-Kept Secret?
LONDON STYLE FOR LESS
Whether your plan is to hunt for antiques, or select a fabulous frock, London offers some of the best shopping around (one pal remarked that even poor men in London own a decent tailored suit).
Oxford Street is really the center of London, and it’s a major shopping area, with pubs, restaurants and such, nearby. Within walking distance is Bond Street—a bevy of luxury goods and designer labels. Wallet-conscious visitors will have to stick to window-shopping, but the street-front shops are certainly worth a look.
But if you’re looking for value, London has plenty of options: Along Regent Street, pop into Primark, an Irish store with low-budget, designer-inspired brands and a loyal following.
Topshop is a reasonably priced favorite of fashionistas and celebrities, while H&M has a wide range of pieces and prices and has attracted top designers, including London’s own Stella McCartney.
Although most people associate high price tags with London’s famous department stores, Harrod’s and Harvey Nichols, there is another option: Selfridges. It has great clothes (designer and more affordable), cosmetics, and one-of-a kind finds (including a limited edition taxi-cab yellow Coca-Cola bottle in honor of the store’s Centennial anniversary) and more.
Don’t forget that you can snag some of the hottest labels for a steal, at the city’s annual designer and sample sales. No wonder London’s lads and ladies look so stylish. Check out the Designer Sale UK for details.
For more great shopping ideas, don’t miss our London Shopping Guide: Portobello Road, London Malls & Beyond
HAUTE HOTELS
While backpackers and students have plenty of youth hostels to choose from, the sluggish economy means that even London’s grand hotels are rolling out the deals, particularly in the slower season. It’s still a splurge, but with prices that are far more affordable than in recent memory, travelers are getting much more for their sterling.
At The Langham London, situated in a plum location at the top of Regent Street, a prime shopping swath, the hotel is offering several deals. Among them, the “Your Heart’s Desire” package (from £295 per night for two), which offers shopping perks and discounts at many of the Regent Street and other stores. The package also includes English breakfast, a “Shopping Butler” to collect your bags, souvenir gifts, plus cocktails and a meal for two.
The Langham’s Sherlock Holmes package pays homage to the hit Robert Downey Jr. movie, the brainchild of British director (and Madonna’s ex-hubby) Guy Ritchie. It retraces author Arthur Conan Doyle’s steps (he often stayed at The Langham) in the 1880s, and includes tickets to the Sherlock Holmes Museum and more, all for £332 per night, based on two guests in a Grand room.
Serious shopaholics shouldn’t miss Bargain Shopping Europe: Oxford, England
Even The Ritz London is dropping its prices to attract business travelers (just present your card upon arrival), with rates from £260 for single room that includes breakfast, Internet and, of course, a suite pressing. The published rate for the same single room is £420 minus the freebies, so this deal is a real steal.
Another way to get the high-life experience without paying the price is simply to grab a cocktail or meal inside the hotel. Try the bar in the Sanderson Hotel, or dine at Asia de Cuba inside St Martin’s Lane hotel.
Or for a real treat, head to The London Langham’s Palm Court, often credited as the birthplace of the proper British high tea.
In the mid-19th century, the crème de la crème of Victorian society gathered here. Fast forward to the 21st Century, and Palm Court remains a place to see and be seen as you sip (pinkies, optional) your “cuppa.” The Palm Court serves more than 30 blends, from organic and herbal infusions, to exotic perfumed teas. There’s even a tea sommelier on staff to help you choose.
For a classic experience, try the Wonderland Afternoon Tea (delicate finger sandwiches, baked scones, Devonshire clotted cream, etc.) for £33.00 per person. You’ll experience the elegance of an upscale London hotel for a fraction of the price of an overnight stay.
ENTERTAINMENT FIT FOR ROYALTY
Many of London’s leading entertainment venues offer discounts on high-ticket productions.
Visitors can gain half-price entry to many West End shows by visiting the TKTS booths in either Leicester Square or Brent Cross Shopping Centre. The booths offer half-price and discounted theater tickets on the day of the show. They go fast, so arrive early.
The iconic National Theatre runs deals for £10 on certain shows; and if you get to the Royal Court Theatre about an hour before a show, you can possibly nab incredibly cheap standing tickets.
Finally, with countless pubs in London, and just as many up-and-coming musicians, remember that live rock n’ roll and other music can be heard, often for free.
By Donna M. Owens for PeterGreenberg.com. Donna is an award-winning journalist based in Baltimore who reports for print, broadcast, and online outlets nationwide.
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