How to Save Money in London: 25 Tips from an Ex-Londoner (2025)
London is notoriously expensive, and I’m sad to admit that since I moved away whenever I go back I’ve turned into one of those ‘How Much?!’ people. I know a few tips and tricks though. If you want in on how to save money in London on your next visit, read on!
So from 7 years of living in the Big Smoke, and a lifetime of popping in, here are my top tips on how to save money in London on your next visit.
Navigating the financial landscape of London doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a bit of savvy planning and a willingness to explore alternative options, it’s entirely possible to enjoy all that this cosmopolitan city has to offer without breaking the bank.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll delve into a treasure trove of money-saving tips tailored specifically for both seasoned locals, and newcomers to the city. Here it is: how to save money in London, for you.
How to Save Money in London
All the money saving tips for London you could ever need!
1. Contactless debit and credit cards are Oyster cards
How to save money in London? Don’t bother spending money on Oyster cards or tourist price tube journeys, you can simply swipe your debit or credit card at the gates to get in, and use the same one to get out.
Remember that if it’s a foreign card you might get charged more by your card issuer though, bringing up the price, but for anyone with a UK bank account, go ahead. It works on the buses too.
2. Walk overground, rather than tubing underground
If you’re travelling around the centre of London keep in mind that some of the stations are not actually that far apart. You could definitely save some money by exploring the city on foot, rather than underground.
For example, Covent Garden and Leicester Square are less than half a mile apart, and Charing Cross and Embankment are pretty much next to each other. Check out this map of ‘minutes walk’ between stations before you decide to spend money on expensive transport. Having a better understanding of how the city fits together will save you money and time in the future too.
If you arrive in London in rush hour, or just have loads of stuff, you can store your luggage with Stasher until a more convenient time.
Then you can go back and get it later – knowing it’ll be safe.
3. Eat in parks
If you’re on a real budget buy from supermarket chains like Tesco etc, although keep in mind that long term they’re ruining the economy for small businesses right now.
A better suggestion is to grab some lunch from a chain free lunch place you happen to see and enjoying the great outdoors in one of London’s many parks and outdoor spaces.
4. Book attractions before you arrive
Attraction companies like the London Pass mean you can pay upfront for your activities and so you know exactly how much you’ll spend.
Websites like lastminute.com offer cheaper West End Shows and similar entertainment, and if you book in advance you’ll get it even cheaper. Booking on the day is pretty much the most expensive way to do it.
5. Avoid tourist central
You can save money in London by getting out of the centre. You can also save money by looking on discount sites but that will usually mean you going to some sort of chain restaurant, rather than just seeing what takes your fancy.
It can be worth it, but I’d suggest going for a curry on Brick Lane, it’s the cheapest, most delicious way to eat in the capital, and you can bring your own booze, which saves even more.
6. Go to Sam Smith pubs
– Not actually a Sam Smith pub, it’s the only pub photo I have
If you’re looking for a pint in the Big Smoke find yourself a Sam Smith pub – nothing to do with the pop star – it’s a local brewery that serves the beer for a lot less than the big chains. You’ll also have a more interesting experience as many of them are in olde style pubs that have retained their pubby character rather than selling out to the hipsters and bankers.
7. Save money on London accommodation
If you’re footloose and fancy free – I like that phrase even though I sound like an old dear – then London has some excellent hostels. I’d recommend either the SoHostel in Soho, Wombats in Limehouse, or YHA just off Oxford Street.
If you’re not a hostel kind of person then I’d recommend you get your hotel reservation in asap, if you want to save money on your accommodation. London hotels are notoriously expensive, and if you want somewhere a bit decent near the centre then I’d say you were looking at at least £100 per night. You could also try sites like AirBnB too.
I hope all that helps to make your London holiday dreams a bit more achievable.
London has a reputation for being one of the world’s more expensive cities that doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t enjoy a cheap trip to London – it really is possible. Here you’ll find ten of the UK capital’s best free things to do, so you have no excuse not to visit!
8. Make the most of the free things to do in London
British Museum
Not only is this museum free, but this is one of London’s top attractions. There’s something on display here from just about every civilisation that ever walked on Planet Earth and you could easily spend an afternoon here. With many interactive features, the kids will be fascinated too!
Hyde Park
The grassy parks of Hyde Park are the best place to be on a warm summer’s day. Stroll the beautiful park for free and even prepare a picnic to take with you. It’s really incredible how such a large green space has not yet been turned into houses and car parks, so make sure you make the most of it.
Changing of the Guard
You simply have to see this military tradition during your London stay. Just behind the gates of BuckinghamPalace you will see the Queen’s Guard change every day at 11.30pm during the summer (and every second day during winter). Start your day off by heading over to the Palace to take in the spectacle.
Markets
London is home to several top markets, all of which are worth a visit to soak up the atmosphere. At the top of most people’s lists you’ll find Camden Market, Greenwich Market and Portobello Market too.
Science Museum
London’s Science Museum will appeal to everyone, with kids entertained by the colourful and interesting exhibitions and talks, while adults will appreciate the rarity of some of the artefacts on show. Adults can even enjoy a night at the museum without children every last Wednesday of the month, where special talks are given just for them.
Platform 9 ¾
Any Harry Potter