London on a Budget

London has incredible things to offer, but it becomes tricky to enjoy it when you are a student. Indeed, London prices can be discouraging, but it shouldn’t stop you from discovering what the city has to offer. Allow me then to give you an introduction to the best activities in London when you’re on a budget.

• Sky Garden

London is big, but sometimes we forget just how far the city expands. What better way to get a panoramic view of London than from one of the skyscrapers in the City? The Sky Garden is a in-doors garden on the top floor of the Walkie Talkie shaped building in the City. It allows you to have a 360-degree view of London and tickets are free (we love free entry)! Suggestion: book at sunset to have an unobstructed view of London’s golden hour.

• Hampstead Heath

When a glimpse of sun appears, Londoners throw themselves to the parks of the capital. I know you’ve heard all about Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, however, the most underrated park of the numerous ones in London is North-London’s Hampstead Heath. If you want a quiet undisturbed afternoon and lush green hills with views to the city, this is the place to go. In the summer you can even swim in the ponds for less than £5! Perfect for dog lovers since it is filled with locals walking their dogs.

• South Bank

The walk towards South Bank never disappoints, regardless of what part of London you live. Putting aside sightseeing during the journey, South Bank and Waterloo always have fun thing to do. Book stalls, food markets, performances, skateparks … all while walking along the Thames towards landmarks like the London Eye and the Big Ben. Most of the options for food are affordable but I would recommend the Waterloo food market on Sundays. You can find all kinds of delicious food!

• Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a new personal discovery and I regret not having gone sooner! This beautiful botanical garden is accessible to students for £9 (with student ID) and features rose fields, a tropical green house, a palace and individual gardens with a vast variety of magnificent plants, trees and flowers. Located next to Richmond and at the edge of the Thames, it is the perfect place for a picnic during summer.

To finish off, a piece of advice: always check for student discounts. In my experience 80% of the time there is a deduction in the entry price for activities. And go enjoy London!

 

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This blog was written by Ines, MEng Biomedical Engineering

Photo credit: All pictures supplied by Ines