So you are looking to save money on a trip to London? Probably finding ways that you can stretch that budget and save on London attractions. Let me share with you how I typically travel to London on a budget.
Since I’ve been living here in the UK for the past decade I have visited London countless times, I’m going to share with you some London tips on how to travel to London for cheap using a coach, cheap train tickets and other ways to save money.
Money-Saving Travel Tips Exploring Around London on a Budget
1. Rent a bike – Boris Bikes or Santander Cycles
Cycling in London? It’s not only eco-friendly but also budget-conscious. One great option is the Santander Cycles, commonly known as Boris Bikes after Boris Johnson, the former mayor who launched the initiative.
This bike-sharing scheme is an excellent way to see London without breaking the bank. So let me break down how you can rent one of these bikes and make the most of your trip.
- Locate a Docking Station: These are scattered all over the city, from tourist hotspots to quiet corners. Use the Santander Cycles app or the Transport for London website to find the closest one.
- Payment: Once you’re at the station, you can pay using debit or credit cards directly at the terminal. Some apps also let you rent bikes, making the process even simpler.
- Unlock and Go: After payment, you’ll receive a release code. Enter it at the dock, and the bike is yours.
- On the Road: Stick to bike lanes whenever possible and make sure you’re aware of the local traffic rules. Helmets aren’t mandatory but highly recommended.
- Return: Simply dock your bike at the nearest station to your destination. Make sure it’s securely locked in, or you might incur extra charges.
Remember, renting a bike not only minimizes your carbon footprint but also gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Make sure that you are staying within the bike lanes and know the rules on the road. Safety first!
Cycling is convenient, affordable, and lets you see London from a different perspective. Plus, you’re exercising; it’s a win-win! So next time you’re in London, why not hop on a Boris Bike?
Read More: Best Day Tours and Places to Visit Near London (UK)
2. Day Travelcard
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Traveling to London by train? I’ve got a tip that could save you both time and money. Consider grabbing a Day Travel Card, valid from Zone 1 to Zone 6. You can use this card on various modes of public transport, such as the London Underground, Overground, DLR, and buses.
Let me give you the lowdown on why a Day Travel Card can be a game-changer for your London trip.
- Convenience: No need to fuss with buying individual tickets for every journey. One card sorts you out for the entire day.
- Cost-Effective: It’s often cheaper than purchasing single tickets, especially if you’re planning on hopping between multiple locations.
- Flexibility: Use it on a range of services, from the Tube to buses. This gives you the freedom to explore London more extensively.
- Easy Add-On: You can easily tack this onto your train ticket when purchasing, either online or at the station.
Well, besides the convenience, it usually works out cheaper if you’re planning multiple journeys in the city. Plus, it opens up options for your London itinerary.
Some attractions and museums in London even offer discounts if you are traveling by train. A Day Travel Card is your passport to hassle-free, cost-effective traveling to London on a budget.
BEST TRAIN DEALS!
If you are looking to travel by train for your upcoming trip to the UK, I recommend searching for the best train fares with Trainline. They have great options for various trains and schedules, to suit your budget.
Read More: London Attractions: 49 Best Things to Do in London (UK)
3. Using Group Saver Or other Discount Cards
Heading to London with friends or family? You’ll want to get familiar with Group Saver and other discount railcards, trust me. You can sign up for the railcard deals here.
Different Types of National Railcards in the UK:
- 16-25 Railcard
- Senior Railcard
- Two Together Railcard
- Disabled Persons Railcard
- 26-30 Railcard
- Family and Friends Railcard
- Network Railcard
- 16-17 Saver
- Veterans Railcard
National Rail offers year-round savings through various cards like the 16-25 and 26-30 Railcards, which knock off up to a third of your fare. These cards are exclusive to the holder and are non-transferable, so make sure you’re the one making the bookings.
When I was a bit younger, I signed up for the 16-25 railcard that gave me a 1/3 off my rail fares to London and anywhere in the UK.
For you to maximize your 16-25 and 26-30 railcard, you can renew it for another 3 years before your 25th birthday and this will be still valid even if you are more than 25 or 30 years old.
But let’s not forget about Group Saver options. If you’re traveling with 3 to 9 people, these offer significant savings, often up to 34% off. Pair these rail options with a Day Travel Card, and you’re looking at a more wallet-friendly, streamlined London experience.
In a city known for its hefty price tags, these discount options can be a real game-changer for your UK travels and visiting London on a budget.
Read More: Best Hotels in London on a Budget Near the Main Attractions
4. Book your coach or train tickets in advance
If you’re planning a trip to London, advance booking for your train or coach tickets can be a real money-saver. Most carriers let you book about three months ahead, and I can vouch for the savings.
During my frequent commutes from Birmingham to London, I’ve snagged train tickets for as low as £10 and coach fares between £2 to £4 one way. Not too shabby, right?
Birmingham New Street
But it’s not just about booking early; timing matters too. Opting for off-peak hours can drive down costs even further. Standard train fares to London can start at around £50, and that’s before you even consider splurging on first-class seats.
If you’re able to combine these early-bird rates with discount options like Railcards or Group Saver tickets, you’re setting yourself up for a budget-friendly London journey. And let’s not forget the Day Travel Card for getting around the city affordably once you’re there.
Planning and booking in advance offer you the double benefit of savings and peace of mind. So, in the quest for economical travel to London, remember: timing is everything.
BEST TRAIN DEALS!
If you are looking to travel by train for your upcoming trip to the UK, I recommend checking Omio. They are a one-stop shop for trains and other transportation that suit your budget and schedule.
Read More: The Best Luxury Hotels in London That Will Make You Feel Like Royalty
5. Walk
Planning a trip to London and want to save money while soaking in the sights? Don’t underestimate the power of walking. Trust me, it’s not only easy on the wallet but also a great way to keep fit. Central London is particularly walker-friendly, with plenty of tourist spots that are easily accessible on foot.
My go-to strategy when I’m not pressed for time? A leisurely stroll through the Royal Parks like Hyde Park or Regent’s Park. They’re a breath of fresh air right in the heart of the city. And let’s not forget, walking allows you to discover hidden gems that you might miss when you’re zipping around on the Tube or bus.
If you’re looking for additional savings, pair your walking tour with advance booking of train or coach tickets, and perhaps a Day Travel Card for when you do need to hop on public transport. That’s your trifecta for a budget-friendly, health-conscious London experience. So lace up those comfortable shoes and hit the streets!
Read More: Best UK Travel Itinerary for 2 Weeks
6. London Double Decker bus
Looking for an affordable way to get around London? Don’t overlook the city’s bus network. These aren’t just your average buses; they’re the iconic red double-deckers that add a bit of charm to your journey. London’s bus service spans Zones 1 to 6, making it easy to get from one destination to another.
A word to the wise: bus timetables are your friend. Make sure you know which bus to catch and when it’s due. Payment has gone cashless, so bring along your Day Travel Card, debit card, or Oyster Card to swipe in. Speaking of the Oyster Card, it caps daily charges, which means after a certain point, your rides could be free for the rest of the day.
I recommend taking these London Sightseeing Bus Route:
Route 11: Fulham to Liverpool Street
Route 24: Pimlico to Hampstead Heath
Route 9: Aldwych to Hammersmith
These bus routes are great and cheap alternatives for sightseeing around the city. They will pass by the majority of London’s attractions.
By the way, buses offer a unique vantage point for sightseeing. You get to see London’s landmarks from a higher perspective, and some routes even pass by key attractions. Buses in London are more than just practical; they’re a cost-effective, scenic way to explore the city.
Read More: Money Card Digital Wallet for Travel Abroad: Effortless Transactions on the Go
7. Use Oyster Card
If you want to navigate London like a local, an Oyster Card is your best bet. You can grab one at any Underground station or even at some corner shops across the city.
A minimum credit of around £10 is needed to get started, but here’s the kicker: the card comes with a daily price cap. This means once you hit a certain spending limit, the rest of your rides for that day are basically free.
Curious about how much you’re spending? You can always check your fares online for the London Underground, buses, and more. Plus, the Oyster Card isn’t just a ticket to ride; it’s also a keepsake you can bring home or use again on your next London adventure.
So, whether you’re hopping on the Tube or catching a bus, an Oyster Card is the smart, economical choice for getting around London on a budget.
Read more: Contactless, Travelcard or Oyster card: Which is Cheaper and Best for Tourists
8. Use Discount Coupons and Vouchers
When it comes to exploring London without breaking the bank, I’m all about leveraging discount coupons and vouchers. Trust me, a little research goes a long way. Many top attractions and eateries offer online vouchers, so it’s worth scouring websites or even signing up for newsletters to get the best deals.
Ever heard of the 2-for-1 offers for attractions like the London Eye or Tower of London? All you need is a valid train ticket and a printed voucher. It’s an easy way to see the sights for half the price. Alternatively, check your nearest UK supermarkets or corner shops for a free ticket promo voucher on the back of some cereal boxes.
Combine this strategy with other cost-saving measures like using an Oyster Card for travel, and you’re well on your way to a more affordable London experience. So, before you hit the streets, hit the web and make those coupons work for you.
9. Don’t go there!
Sure, London’s a must-visit, but don’t put all your British sightseeing eggs in one basket. The UK has so much more to offer beyond the capital, often at a fraction of the cost.
Ever considered hopping on a train to explore nearby gems? Cities like Oxford, Cambridge, The Cotswold, or Bath are just a short ride away and offer a completely different experience—think historic universities, Roman baths, and scenic river walks.
If you’ve got a Railcard or take advantage of advance booking, these trips can be both budget-friendly and time-efficient. Plus, the UK’s extensive train network makes it easy to venture even further to places like Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Cardiff.
So, while London’s great and all, don’t miss out on the other fantastic spots that make the UK truly diverse and unique. Then if you are planning to visit different places around the UK, you can check out this Best UK Travel Itinerary for 2 Weeks and the other Best Places to Visit in the UK.
I hope my London budget-friendly travel tips helped you in planning your trip to the UK’s capital. Enjoy your visit to the King!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ryazan Tristram
Travel Writer & PhotographerRyazan has a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hotel Management. She also has more than 10 years of work experience gained from working in the hotel and travel sectors in Asia and Europe. Her work has been featured and published in BBC, Huffington Post, Reader’s Digest, Discovery Channel, World Travel Guide, MSN, CNBC, GMA, Daily Mail UK, Lonely Planet, and many more. She is currently living in the UK as a dual citizen (British-Filipina). Join her in travelling around the UK, Europe, and beyond with a mission to promote sustainable tourism and share travel guides, travel tips, foodies, history, and culture.
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