Affordable London: FREE Hidden Gems
Affordable London: FREE Hidden Gems
Anne Wang
London is such a huge city that travelers often don't know where to start. There is always something new to discover! As someone who has lived in London for 6 months while studying abroad, I am here to offer you an in depth guide of London with hidden gems! Most important of all, these spots are all FREE/affordable, so you can still experience the best of London without breaking your bank account! Follow my guide as I show you how to experience the best hidden gems of London.
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Affordable Accommodation
When booking accommodation, consider location, affordability, and comfort! I've listed a few hostels that I recommend booking in London.
Generator London
@annewang
This hostel is super affordable and central. It includes a lovely downstairs bar/social space to meet other likeminded travelers. You're also just a walk away from Regent's Park, King's Cross Station, and The British Museum!
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Astor Hyde Park Hostel
@annewang
This hostel is super close to Hyde Park, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria & Albert museum (which are all free!). The hostel also has a fun party atmosphere and has spacious rooms with a homey atmosphere.
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Wombat's City Hostel London
@annewang
This hostel is located in a super central location near Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and City Hall. The hostel also organizes numerous events including walking tours and karaoke, giving you a chance to socialize and meet other travelers! There's also a fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to save money by cooking your own foods!
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Astor Museum Hostel
@annewang
This award winning hostel is right by The British Museum. It is walking distance away from Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Soho, Trafalgar Square, and Leicester Square, making it super convenient to get around. Plus, you will save money on transportation from the Tube by walking :)
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God's Own Junkyard
@annewang
This cute cafe doubles as an extraordinary neon art exhibit. The best part? Entrance is completely FREE!
Take the tube to Walthamstow Central Station and God's Own Junkyard is just a short walk away! This place is the perfect spot to catch up with friends or spice up your Instagram feed. While DSR cameras are not permitted, phones cameras are! Prepare to be amazed 😎
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Hampstead Heath
The Hill Garden and Pergola
@annewang
This may be my favorite place in London. It is so picturesque and beautiful that it's hard to believe it's just a short tube ride away from the city. When you visit The Hill Garden and Pergola, you feel like you're in a fairytale cottage town! Come during June to see the flowers in peak bloom and enjoy a picnic in this scenic location for a break from the city. Another perk-- it's FREE!
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La Crêperie de Hampstead
@annewang
While you're visiting Hampstead, be sure to stop by La Crêperie! They have the best crêpes and the owners are so sweet--always willing to strike up a conversation. Another plus, watch your crepe get made right in front of you!
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Parliament Hill Viewpoint
@annewang
Stop by Parliament Hill during sunset to get the best views of the London skyline!
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Kenwood House
@annewang
Visit Kenwood House in Hampstead to get a break from the heat outdoors and witness beautiful architecture and paintings. There are also beautiful gardens nearby to satiate your yearning for green space. Best of all, this activity is FREE!
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Mixed Bathing Pond
@annewang
Go for a swim at Hampstead Heath's bathing pond! Swimming sessions are charged at £4.25, or £2.55 for concessions. Cash and card are both accepted!
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Greenwich
Visit Greenwich to view the Greenwich Mean Time line, see stunning viewpoints of the city, visit the Maritime Museum, or catch a concert at the O2.
Greenwich Market
@annewang
Visit Greenwich market to get a glimpse into London's local market culture!
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Royal Observatory Greenwich
@annewang
Go to the Greenwich Observatory to witness the Greenwich Mean Time line and see a stunning view of London. The view is perfect for sunset!
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National Maritime Museum
@annewang
Visit the National Maritime Museum to witness Greenwich's maritime history. The museum is FREE to access, but you can book online to guarantee entree.
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The Millennium Dome Millennium Way
@annewang
This is one of London's most famous venues. Visit the O2 to catch a concert with one of your favorite artists, or go on a cable car ride across the Thames River. A one way cable car ride costs £4.30 (£3.20 discount) for an adult, £2.20 (£1.60 discount) for children (5-15 years) and children under 5 are free at no cost.
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Regent's Park
As someone who lived only 5 minutes away, Regent's Park was one of my favorite parks in London for a getaway from work. It is huge and has so much to offer, including Queen Mary's Rose Gardens and dreamy viewpoints from Primrose Hill.
Primrose Hill
@annewang
Stop by Primrose Hill during sunrise or sunset to see breathtaking views of the London skyline! This area is also a local favorite. Whenever the weather is nice, everyone flocks to Primrose to appreciate the rare good weather in London. This is also a great place for jogs and runs.
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Canals
Little Venice
@annewang
Who needs to go to Italy when you can experience the romance of Little Venice right here in London! Little Venice houses a series of canals and boat restaurants. It is also located in Paddington, where the film Paddington was filmed.
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Regent's Canal
@annewang
Regent's Canal is filled with beautiful boats and restaurants. Take a walk along here to catch a break from the city and see a true hidden gem. TIP: Walk along Regent's Canal to reach Camden Market!
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FREE Museums
Science Museum
@annewang
Free science museum. TIP: Check their website to see if they have Lates, a fun late night themed social event to network and meet new people!
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The British Museum
@annewang
Free history museum! The British Museum is one of the world's most renowned museums with pieces from Ancient Egypt, the Parthenon, and the Rosetta Stone!
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Victoria and Albert Museum
@annewang
Free arts and sculpture museum! Bring your sketchbook and camera here because it is absolutely beautiful!
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Markets
London is known for its numerous markets. Even if you aren't looking into going shopping, visiting these London markets is a great way to experience London culture. Plus, these markets are a great place to support small businesses and meet people from all around the world.
Covent Garden
@annewang
Covent Garden is filled with music, live performances, restaurants, and shops for a lovely shopping experience. When taking the Tube here, make sure you do NOT walk up the stairs. Take the lift instead. The stairs feel like climbing Mount Everest.
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Columbia Road Flower Market
@annewang
Visit Columbia Road Flower Gardens on Sunday mornings for fantastic bargains on flowers and other plants! TIP: Get there early as the market opens at 8am to get the best deals!
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The Apple Market
@annewang
Located at the heart of Covent Garden, experience the live orchestra performances of Apple Market and support local artists!
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Jubilee Market
@annewang
This market is also located right by Covent Garden! Visit both to scratch off both off your list in one go!
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Camden Market
@annewang
Camden Market is one of my favorite markets. This market is located by a canal and offers amazing art, clothing, and bustling street food from all around the world. TIP: It can get very crowded during weekends and peak times, so go during quieter hours to avoid the crowds.
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Portobello Road Market
@annewang
Visit Portobello Road Market by Notting Hill for the best vintage and antique finds! TIP: Don't visit on Sundays because it will be closed.
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Brick Lane Market
@annewang
Located in Shoreditch, Brick Lane is known for its hipster vibe. Hit up Brick Lane to purchase (or browse) the coolest vintage clothes and thrift finds. There are so many vendors that you will be sure to find something that suits your style!
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Spitalfields Market
@annewang
Visit Spitalfields Market to support local artisans and buy jewelry, clothing, art, and food!
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Borough Market
@annewang
This market is known for its delicious food! It is one of the oldest markets in London, ranging back to the 12th century. TIP: This market gets busy fast, so go during non-peak times. Also beware of pick pockets!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Anne Wang
Hello travelers! My name is Anne and I am delighted to share my travel expertise with all you lovelies! I grew up in the greater Washington D.C. area but am currently based in the greater Boston area. I also lived in London for 6 months while studying abroad and I was able to travel many European cities.
If you are also a college student like me who wants to make the most of traveling on a budget, you've come to the right page! Here I will let you know all the ins and outs of budget travel and discounts so you can see all the wonders this world has to offer. Traveling does not need to be expensive, as long as you budget and plan correctly!
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