Explore Englands Capital On A Shoestring
That most British of institutions – The Monachy – will be the centre of the world’s attention next week when Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot at Westminster Abbey.
The ceremony will be transmitted live and it will be a great advert for the City of London. With the 2012 Olympics on the horizon, there could not be a better time to see the English capital. But while it has plenty to offer the visitors its also quiet an exensive place and it can come as quite a shock to see just how much ordinary items costs. London Hotels eating out and some visitor attractions are among the highest in Europe. In this time of austerity, it may lead to some thinking twice about visiting the City. But like everything in this time of recession, a bit of research will stretch your spending money a long way.
Research Will Save You Money
Lets start with accommodation and transport. Using sites like hotels.com to book accommodation in advance will save you some cash, but so will moving slightly out of the centre of London. Areas like Mayfair, Bloomsbury and Marylebone are fairly central, but you pay a huge premium. Look out for bargains in the newly refurbished King’s Cross area, London Bridge or Earl’s Court. Kings Cross is near to the British Museum Library, The Wellcome Institute, and like most London areas, the London Underground is just a short walk away. Earls Court is just a couple of stops away from the Museums in Kensington, and the Great Parks of London. London Bridge area is close to the Tower of London, but you’ve also got St. Pauls Cathedral, The Thames Walk which takes in The Globe Theatre, Design Museum, epicure markets, and the Saturday book markets outside the Royal Festival Hall, which also have free music performances and art exhibitions.
What About Transport Costs?
If you buy an Oyster card at any tube station for £3 you can preload it with cash and save money on your daily tube journey. Taxis in London are a luxury so keep to the bus and Underground network. Once you have got settled into your hotel, have a quick explore of the local area and seek out the nearest supermarket. You can then buy fresh supplies to see you through the day – such as a packed lunch, drinks and a few snacks. Food at tourist attractions is always very expensive. You can save yourself a bucket-load of spending money just by planning ahead.
When it comes to activities, have a think before paying an entrance fee – many attractions such as the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern and the Imperial War Museum have a donation entrance fee, which means the whole family can have a fantastic experience for a few pounds. There are parks and green spaces dotted all across the City, and if you go into the Old City, you can stroll on a riverside walk, see the old Law Courts, The Barbican, and Brick Lane for some local colour – keep an eye out for the fabulous Bagel Bake Shop – one of the best in London. Book onto one of the London Walks – these are very reasonably priced and can take you through Dickens London, or Ghosts of London – fantastic for a moonlit stroll.
With a bit of planning you can enjoy a varied and relaxing break in London, without the Royal price tag!
