Most visitors are familiar with London’s most famous parks, among these, Hyde Park, Green Park, St James’s Park, and the Regent’s Park. These parks are four of London’s eight Royal Parks, which means that they were originally used by the royal family for recreational purposes. 

But beyond these central London parks are a huge number of lovely, verdant places for year-round enjoyment. Swim and relax in the shade during the summer; track the changing of the seasons in autumn and spring; stay active during the dark winter season.

Here are four less well-known parks across London, parks most visitors are unlikely to stumble upon. 

Related: 20 free museums in London

Peckham Rye Park & Common

Nearest train station: Peckham Rye (Overground and Thameslink)

Bus lines: 12, 63, 343, 363

Peckham Rye Park sits south of buzzy, rapidly gentrifying Peckham, far south of the Thames. There is a quiet community garden, an arboretum, several gardens (a formal English garden, a Japanese garden, and a nature garden), and a fun, cheery café called The Round. 

Peckham Rye is lovely all year, though, like all of London parks, it really comes alive during the summer months. 

As a bonus, it’s within easy walking distance from both Peckham High Street and very pleasant East Dulwich, both of which are full of great places to eat. (Lunch tip: Head to Persepolis, a good value vegetarian supermarket-café at 28-30 Peckham High Street.)

Beckenham Place Park

Nearest train station: Beckenham Hill (Thameslink)

Bus access: 54, 136

This massive south London park, expanded in 2019 by annexing a golf course, has a BMX track, a swimming lake, and loads of trails through woods. The social hub of the park is a 1760s mansion sitting atop a gentle green slope, which houses a café and hosts frequent events.

Beckenham Place Park takes some time to reach from central London; unless you want to make a day of the park, combine a visit here with some other south London attractions, like the Horniman Museum and Gardens or Crystal Palace, with its triangle of interesting shops and cafes.

Vibrant blooms at Golders Hill Park. Photo: Laura Nolte

Golders Hill Park

Nearest Tube stations: Hampstead and Golders Green (Edgware branch of Northern Line)

Bus access: 210, 268

Adjacent to the much better-known Hampstead Heath, Golders Hill Park is an enormously appealing London park. It has a playground, a free zoo, tennis courts, a lovely Georgian pergola with sweeping park views, a botanical garden, and a bird pond, among other features. Paths crisscross the park; the paths through wooded areas are especially rewarding. 

Lincoln’s Inn Fields

Nearest Tube station: Holborn (Central and Piccadilly)

Bus access: 1, 8, 13, 55, 59, 113, 168, 188, 243, 521

The only truly central London park — to be exact, this is a public square, not a park — in this list, Lincoln’s Inn Fields sits adjacent to Lincoln’s Inn, one of London‘s four Inns of Court. (Inns of Court are professional legal associations; every lawyer — or barrister — in England and Wales belongs to one of these four associations.) The park features a wide grassy area perfect for summer picnics. There are also tennis and netball courts and a café. 

On the north side of the square is Sir John Soane’s Museum, a lovely and often overlooked house museum featuring restored interiors and paintings from Soane’s wide-ranging collection.

What hidden gems have you come across in London? Share your favorite London parks and other attractions in the comments below!

The post 4 London parks most tourists miss appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Islington is one of north London’s jewels in the crown, a lively corner where some of the city’s loveliest squares, most beautiful houses and traditional pubs rub shoulders with ethnic restaurants, fancy cocktail bars, glamorous boutiques and an intricate canal network.

Islington is also London’s smallest borough and home to a host of famous residents. The borough stretches down to Old Street and brushes up against the edge of the City of London, while reaching down eclectic Holloway Road to Archway and Finsbury Park, with Angel and Highbury and Islington stations goal posting the start and end of buzzy Upper Street—a focal point for Islington locals.

Related: Affordable hotels near London’s top attractions

Hit up Upper Street for endless dining choices

One of my favorite spots for dinner in London, Upper Street has a great vibe about it, especially in the summer when chairs and tables line the street and transport you to a much more Mediterranean destination. The choice is endless, you can pretty much eat your way around the world just on this one street, but the arrival of more chain restaurants in recent years have led to the demise of a few cheapo-friendly favorites.

Angel Tube Station is a bookend of bustling Upper Street. Photo: Alan Stanton

Budget eating & drinking options

That said, there is still plenty to choose from—the tasty Basque pintxos at Pix (from £1.95 each) or a Turkish mezze at one of the three Gallipoli cafes (Gallipoli Bistro, Gallipoli Again and Gallipoli Bazaar) will leave you full and with change for a “Happy Hour” cocktail at nearby Barrio North on Essex Road. Le Mercury and The Beach Hut are two more Islington faves that you can read about here.

Try Holloway Road for authentic global cuisine

For something a little rougher round the edges but undoubtedly better value, head to Holloway Road, which cuts through the centre of the borough. Here you can really feast on authentic ethnic food from around the world—be it a Georgian banquet at Tbilisi or a tasty curry at the Red Rose Tandoori.

Seeking out affordable entertainment

End your evening at the theater and catch something very different (and better value) to the West End musicals you’ll have seen advertised all over Leicester Square—the Almeida Theatre and the venue at the Kings Head Pub have a fantastic range of shows on year-round, while the Camden Head Pub hidden away on pretty Camden Passage runs free comedy nights throughout the week.

Relax for free in Highbury Fields

If the sun is shining then grab a picnic and relax in the fabulous Highbury Fields—flanked by some truly beautiful houses, this pretty park is a hive of activity on a warm afternoon. Alternatively, take a walk along the canal and I defy anyone not to start dreaming of upping sticks and moving into a flower-laden houseboat where the pace of life is oh-so-leisurely in this secret waterside city. You can also take in some culture as you stroll—stop off at the Victoria Miro Gallery and the Parasol Unit for a good dose of contemporary art.

A glimpse of old London for no cost

But what is there to do beyond eating and drinking yourself silly in this popular residential area? There are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. If you’re interested in seeing a glimpse of old London and picturing how the streets of Islington once looked then start off by heading to the free Islington Museum on St John Street.

Emirates Stadium is home to Arsenal Football Club and is open for tours. Photo: Alvin Leong

Fantasy football tour for under £10

If football is more your thing then no trip to Islington is complete without visiting the home of Arsenal.  The spangly 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium stands tall and shiny amidst the rows of traditional houses that surround it. Uprooted from their old home in 2006 (which still lies just a few hundred meters away and now boasts a myriad of luxury flats), Arsenal’s more modern dwelling is a big attraction in the area. Stadium tours run on a daily basis and cost from £18 per adult (or £7.50 to enter the Arsenal Museum), but if your budget doesn’t stretch to that there are still plenty of photo opportunities to be had outside. Match days are also a fun time to visit as locals open burger vans in their front gardens and the pubs bounce to the sound of excited fans.

The post London: Cheapo neighborhood guide to Islington appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

A budget guide to the City of London

When it comes to accommodation, the choices are also blossoming and becoming increasingly boutique, but there are still plenty of affordable staples that will place you at the heart of the action and a short stroll home at the end of the night.

Where to stay

The modern lounge area makes the Qbic Hotel an affordable home base to explore The City. Photo: EuroCheapo

Qbic London City
42 Adler Street, London E1 1EE
Tube: Whitechapel or Aldgate East
Read our full review
Website

A new arrival on the London hotel scene, Qbic is a great budget option for business and leisure travelers alike. Located just opposite Aldgate East station at the end of Brick Lane, it’s perfect for exploring East London.

The rooms are all built around the revolutionary Qbic pod formation which comprises a double bed, TV, bathroom, bedside tables and lamps and wardrobe, but you pay more for a window with a view. Rooms are clean, compact and very comfortable, but you’ll probably want to spend most of your time in the uber cool lounge area, which feels like the designer living room you always wished you could afford.

Related: Does Qbic London City manage to be both chic and cheap?

Ibis London City
5 Commercial Street, London E1 6BF
Tube: Aldgate East
Read our full review
Website

The Ibis offers what you would expect from an established hotel chain; comfort and cleanliness in a good location. While the design is nothing to write home about, the prices are always very reasonable and you will be guaranteed a good night’s sleep and attentive staff on hand all the time. Rooms come with phones and flatscreen TVs and all have private bathrooms. The hotel also boasts a modern bar and restaurant with decent value food—great for a snack after a long flight, but there are plenty of more inspiring places to explore nearby if you’re looking for a more memorable dinner (carrying on reading for ideas…).

What to see

Whitechapel Gallery
77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London E1 7QX
Tube: Aldgate East

A great gallery that offers lots of free (and some paid for) modern art exhibitions ranging from sculpture and painting to photography and unique installations. If your visit falls on the first Thursday of the month, be sure to head to the gallery’s First Thursdays, which sees over 150 spaces in the area open their doors until 9pm with free events, exhibitions and talks throughout the night.

Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
Tube: Barbican

Europe’s largest performing arts center is housed in an iconic building slap bang in the middle of the City of London. Everything from film screenings and theater to concerts and exhibitions take place here and, sadly, it is often missed off the tourist agenda. Some things are free and some are paid for, so check the website in advance and work out what you want to see to make the most of your visit.

Related: Our favorite free art galleries and museums in London

Spitalfields Market
65a Brushfield Street, London E1 6AA
Tube: Liverpool Street

Located just behind Liverpool Street you’ll find a creative and quirky market that contrasts wildly with the suits that inhabit this corner of London during the week. Spitalfields is home to artists, vintage clothes stalls, accessories and unique homeware, as well as plenty of tasty food. Sunday to Friday sees the Traders Market take place, or alternatively time your visit with the Saturday Style Market.

Eating and drinking

Brick Lane Brasserie
67 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL
Tube: Aldgate East or Whitechapel

You can’t visit The City without sampling one of Brick Lane’s legendary Indian restaurants. As tower blocks and offices give way to ethnic restaurants and supermarkets, so you’ll find yourself marveling at another of London’s fantastic contrasts. Brick Lane is absolutely jam packed with curry houses, many of which vie for your attention as you walk down the road and, while some of them serve up more questionable food than others, you can’t stay in East London without experiencing it once. My personal favorite is the Brick Lane Brasserie—which serves up familiar curries and some more unusual options if you fancy branching out. Make sure you negotiate before you sit down, because most places throw in a few free beers with your meal.

Box Park is a rotating selection of shops and eateries housed in shipping containers. Photo: Matty Ring

Box Park
2-10 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6GY
Tube: Shoreditch High Street

This self proclaimed “pop up shopping mall” made out of shipping containers has become less pop up and more of a permanent structure next to Shoreditch High Street train station over the last couple of years. However, the shops that reside within it do change regularly and upstairs there are lots of fun eateries and bars. Cottons Rum Shack is a particular favorite for a Caribbean cocktail in the summer months.

All Star Lanes
95 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL
Tube: Shoreditch High Street

For burgers, shakes and some good old bowling and karaoke, All Star Lanes is the ideal place to let off steam after a grueling day in the office or a long day sightseeing. A filling meal in the form of a generously sized burger starts form £9.50, while bowling costs between £6.95 and £8.95 per person per game, depending on the day and time.

Nightlife

For late night drinks try Vibe Bar on a nice evening as the huge outdoor terrace is a great place to soak up the last of the sunshine, or head to Brick Lane staple, 93 Feet East, for DJs and live music Wednesday through to Sunday. Wednesday nights also play host to “Mundo Lingo” an intercambio style multilingual event for foreigners and locals to meet new people and practice language skills.

Special treat

Heron Tower
110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
Tube: Liverpool Street

If you do feel like splurging, save your pennies for an unforgettable trip up the 40-storey Heron Tower. Here you’ll find the British-inspired Duck and Waffle, and the internationally renowned Sushi Samba, both of which will set you back a good £13 for a cocktail, but if you really want to get a bird’s eye view of The City from the heart of it, this is most certainly the place to do it.

The post A Budget Guide to the City of London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Once thought of as pretty seedy, Kings Cross has cleaned up its act, and its central, canal side location make it a real winner when choosing a home base for your trip. The many connections from the train station (including the Eurostar to Paris) make it extra convenient for traveling, as well.

Location aside, the area’s offering when it comes to nightlife and dining is also vastly improved from what it once was and definitely worth spending an afternoon or evening exploring. Here’s where to start:

Where to stay

YHA St Pancras
79-81 Euston Road
Doubles from: $76 to $126

When compared to other YHA properties, the Kings Cross branch feels much more like a smart budget hotel than a sprawling hostel. Choose from dorm accommodation or a two, four, five or six-bedroom—perfect for couples or groups. Rooms are decorated simply but inoffensively, and they’re perfectly comfortable for relaxing in after a long day of sightseeing. As the hotel is located on quite a busy road, light sleepers may wish to request a room at the back. There’s a modern cafe/bar, where you can get food at very reasonable prices and a great TV lounge—a real draw for sleepy travelers.

The Princess is a friendly, low-cost place to stay with free breakfast that puts you very close to the Tube and St. Pancras train station. Photo: EuroCheapo

Princess Hotel
35-37 Argyle Street
Doubles from: $93

For something with more character and privacy, check in at the pretty Princess Hotel. This 32-room guesthouse is family run and perfect if you’re after a traditional B&B experience. Rooms are simple with hints of floral, and you get breakfast included in the room rate, so you can fuel up at the start of the day. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV, hairdryer and you can opt for either a shared or private bathroom.

Related: See the complete list of EuroCheapo’s budget hotels in Kings Cross.

What to see

Kings Place: Music + Art + Restaurants
90 York Way
London N1 9AG

This modern arts centre is worth a visit just to see the beautiful building and canal views, and if you have time to stay awhile, you won’t be disappointed. There is an ever-changing program of events ranging from contemporary art exhibitions and masterclasses, to live music and spoken word. The space houses three galleries—Pangolin London sculpture gallery, Kings Place Gallery and the Guardian Gallery, which is linked to the offices of the Guardian newspaper (also housed in the building) and is free to enter. Many of the other activities do have an entrance fee, but these are often greatly reduced if you buy online in advance, so do check the website.

Wellcome Collection
183 Euston Road
London NW1 2BE
Admission: Free

This unique space prides itself on being a destination for the “incurably curious”, and it certainly sets itself apart from other galleries and exhibition centers. Founded by Sir Henry Solomon Wellcome, it aims to present science in a totally new way by exploring the connection between medicine, life and art in the past, present and future. Check out the Collection’s free events, tours, exhibitions and special collections.

Note: The space is currently undergoing renovations, so not every room is open to the public, but there is still plenty to see and do.

Related: Another major attraction in the area is the British Library, the largest in the world holding over 150 million volumes.

Eating and drinking

Kerb – Food trucks and stalls
Granary Square,
London N1C

If the sun is shining head to one of Kings Cross’ newest public spaces, Granary Square, and feast on the array of lunchtime bites on sale from the Kerb food trucks and stalls between midday and 2 PM Monday to Friday. In the summertime, Kerb will also be setting up shop on the third Saturday of each month until October from 11 AM-5 PM, so grab a spot on the canal side steps and tuck in. Choices range from life changing burgers and tasty tacos to spicy curries and comforting mac and cheese.

Somers Town Coffee House
60 Chalton Street
London NW1 1HS

A lovely pub with secret private rooms accessed via a bookcase, Somers Town Coffee House offers a relaxed afternoon sampling cask ales and incredible British tapas—anywhere that offers pigs in blankets is a winner if you ask me! If you’ve got room, give one of the lovely cakes a go too; they are pure sugary goodness and a great opportunity to try some traditional British desserts.

Caravan
1 Granary Square
London N1C 4AA

I could eat at Caravan any time of day, but if I had to choose just one meal I’d go for brunch. On the weekends you’ll have to fight for a table (or sip a cocktail patiently at the bar) as they don’t take reservations, but I promise you it’s worth the wait. During the week you’ll find yourself rubbing shoulders with the arty students from Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design, as their swanky new school is housed in the same building. The menu is truly original, with more traditional breakfast favorites flavored up with soutsouki sausage or fresh sourdough bread. It’s also one of the best places in London to have a coffee, all of which is roasted onsite (and smells incredible).

Camino
3 Varnisher’s Yard
London N1 9FD

For tasty tapas and lovely cocktails, Camino is my top pick. The courtyard out front is a fun place for an outdoor drink in summer, while indoors the lively tapas restaurant and bar are buzzing all year round. There are also some great value deals—head down for lunch on a weekday and get two tapas for £6.75, while weekends welcome in a cocktail, wine and beer happy hour from 5-8 PM. If you fancy a dance, there are live DJs on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and you never have to pay an entrance fee.

Treat yourself to a drink at the spectacular bar inside the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel. Photo: Gary J Wood

Special treat

Booking Office Bar
Euston Road
London NW1 2AR

While it’s unlikely any Cheapos will be resting their heads for the night at the five-star St. Pancras Renaissance hotel, you’ll thank yourself forever if you afford yourself a drink in the bar. This beautiful gothic masterpiece was originally a hotel designed by George Gilbert Scott and opened by Queen Victoria in 1873. When the hotel closed in 1935 the space was used as station offices until a huge restoration project began in 2011 to turn it into what it is today and restore it to its luxurious former glory.

If you’re just visiting, head to the Booking Office Bar (housed in the original station booking office) and prepare to be wowed by the space and the truly fabulous Victorian-inspired cocktails and punches. You’re looking at £8.50 and £9.50 for the cheapest glass of wine or cocktail, and if that proves too much, you can always opt for something softer while you drink in the surroundings.

The post London: A cheapo neighborhood guide to Kings Cross appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And, even though Bayswater doesn’t score too highly on actual ‘sights’, its location is pretty fantastic—Portobello Market, upmarket Marylebone and Kensington Gardens are all within walking distance—both saving you the expense of a travel card and making it extra easy to explore the city.

London Bayswater Guide

Where To Stay

The sleek rooms of the Stylotel are a great bargain for this excellent location. Photo: EuroCheapo

Stylotel
160 Sussex Gardens
Doubles from $156

This hotel may look fairly traditional from the outside but don’t be fooled—inside it’s more resembles a spaceship with sleek metallic finishes than the traditional London hotel room. Other than the décor, there are plenty more reasons to stay here—rooms can sleep up to four and complimentary tea and coffee are served throughout the day in the hotel’s lounge.

Royal Court Apartments
51 Gloucester Terrace
Doubles from $74

These apartments offer an affordable alternative to a hotel room. Each of the one to three bedroom apartments has its own kitchen, and are consistently praised for being super clean as well as cheap.

Where To Eat

Mandalay
444 Edgware Road

Edgware Road offers an almost overwhelming number of cheap eateries. It would be easy to overlook Mandalay from the outside, but you’d be missing out on unique Burmese food. The owners describe their food as a combination of Chinese and Indian flavors with a slight Thai influence. With all main dishes priced at under £9, they’re definitely worth trying for yourself. Mandalay is so popular that it’s worth calling ahead to secure one of their ten tables and—in fact—to check they are still open on the Edgware Road, as a move to larger premises is immanent. We’d hate for you to miss out.

Couscous Café
7 Porchester Gardens

With main dishes at around the £15, this might stretch the budget slightly but it’s well worth it for tasty Moroccan tagine and couscous dishes all served within a cute, cozy and atmospheric setting. While the premises might be small, the servings are generous and the restaurant allows you to bring in your own booze—in fact all the ingredients for a great meal.

Patogh
8 Crawford Place

Another cheap and cheerful Bayswater special, this café specializes in Iranian dishes, from the traditional Persian stews to kebab style dishes. Diners are crammed onto communal tables in a tiny room, complete with a busy grill, but it’s worth it for the convivial atmosphere and mains for under £10. It’s also worth noting this is another BYOB (‘bring your own bottle’).

Where To Drink

The Victoria is a neighborhood favorite dating back to 1838. Photo: Matthew Black

The Victoria
10A Strathearn Place

The area around Paddington has some great traditional pubs to discover, with a particular favorite being The Victoria. It was built in 1838 and is so-called because apparently Queen Victoria once stopped here on her way to Paddington station. It’s also known that Dickens also put pen in paper in this establishment. The interior retains its historic interest while having been brought up to 21st century standards, and The Victoria consistently wins fans for its food as well as its friendly staff.

The Monkey Puzzle
30 Southwick Street

The Monkey Puzzle manages to retain a community feel while being a welcoming place for travelers to stop and enjoy a pint, especially if you want to sample some of their award-winning ales that are always on tap. There’s a menu of traditional British pub food, such as fish and chips, and if you are lucky enough to be in London on the one day of sunshine each year, this pub also benefits from a nice beer garden.

Bonus Attraction

Alfies Antique Market
13–25 Church Street

If you like vintage or antiques, Alfies is a definite must. It’s a sprawl of 75 different dealers set over four floors. Each dealer has their own specialty—be it posters or lace—and, although you are unlikely to unearth a complete bargain, it’s a fascinating place to browse and learn from the expertise of the different traders. There’s a relatively unknown rooftop café with the bonus free WiFi, which makes it the perfect place to come and recharge and get a different perspective on this bit of London.

The post A guide to London’s Bayswater neighborhood appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

There are still lots of budget accommodation available in the area, while the large student contingent, courtesy of University College London, means Bloomsbury offers plenty of cheap eats and entertainment options, too. What more could a Cheapo ask for?

Where To Stay

The Ridgemount Hotel
65–67 Gower Street

One of the few hotels on Gower Street that is still family run, the Rees family are charming hosts (you can read our interview with Aled Rees here). This is a clean and comfortable base for a stay in London that offers excellent value for money. Accommodation is split between private and shared bathrooms. Doubles from £64.

The family-run Celtic Hotel offers affordable rooms with private bath (and a yummy breakfast). Photo: EuroCheapo

Celtic Hotel
61–63 Guildford Street

Owner Rosanna Marazzi is also one of our favorite proprietors (read our interview here) and is responsible for the warm welcome visitors receive at the Celtic Hotel. This traditional townhouse is homely and bedrooms are small but pretty, and exceptionally clean. No wonder past guests have been known to refer to it as their “home in London”. Doubles from £79.

Generator Hostel
37 Tavistock Place, Russell Square

For a different kind of accommodation option, head to this socially inclined hostel. It sleeps over 800 and, while perhaps not the place for those seeking some peace and quiet, it is perfect for those on the look out for something more lively. It’s even got its own nightclub offering different events every evening. Doubles from £60

Want more options? Here’s a full list of our recommended budget hotel picks in Bloomsbury.

Where To Eat

Mary Ward Centre
42 Queen Square WC1N 3AQ

This small but perfectly formed veggie café offers a hearty and healthy pit stop. Prices are extremely reasonable and you can indulge in a homemade soup for £2.15 or a hot main for £4.30. There are always vegan and gluten free options on the menu, too. The café is situated within an adult education centre and opening hours can echo the times of classes, so it’s worth checking ahead before making a special journey there, especially over the weekend.

Gig’s
12 Tottenham Street

Gig’s comes with the recommendation of many, including Aled Rees of the Ridgemount Hotel (see above). It’s been based here since 1958 and offers generous portions of traditional British fish and chips in all their fried and battered glory. You can take away, or eat in to enjoy the charming service on offer from the staff. Its owners are Greek, so expect some kebabs and Greek specialties on the menu alongside the usual cod and haddock.

Sfizio Caffe
35–37 Theobalds Road

This family run Italian café bar will service your culinary needs for breakfast, lunch and evening. It’s all traditional fare, and better quality than many of the “Italian” chains you’ll find around the city. Generously filled focaccie are about £5 and you can pick up a pizza for less than £8. It’s well worth popping in for an aperitivo, served up with tasty finger food between 5 pm and 7 pm every day.

Cheap drinks and no-fuss environment at the Fitzroy Tavern. Photo: Ewan-M

Where To Drink

Fitzroy Tavern
15 Charlotte Street

Samuel Smiths pubs are always worth seeking out for their cheap drinks served in no-fuss environments. In this case, the Fitzroy Tavern’s rich history is simply another bonus. Built as a coffee house in the 19th century, it’s been a meeting place for many bohemians over the years including Dylan Thomas and George Orwell. Who knows whom you’ll be drinking your pint next to?

Calthorpe Arms
252 Grays Inn Road

This Grade II listed pub was originally built to serve traders and shopkeepers and, for a busy area of central London, it still attracts a friendly local crowd. It’s very much a traditional boozer, with chat taking the place of music or TV screen, and Young’s Ales on tap. There’s pub food available, too.

Walk like an Egyptian at the Petrie Museum. Photo: Nics Events

Bonus attraction:

Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archeology
Malet Place

If you would rather avoid all the crowds in the Egyptian galleries at the British Museum, the Petrie is worth a visit. Part of University College London, it’s free and has one of greatest collections of Egyptian and Sudanese archeology in the world, with over 80,000 objects revealing what life was like in the Nile Valley thousands of years ago.

The post London: A cheapo guide to Bloomsbury’s hotels, restaurants and bars appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Yet the area is still relatively undeveloped in terms of places to stay. As indicated by the recent opening of CitizenM, this has started to change. Even without its fascinating history, it would be well worth investigating Southwark for convenience alone: London Bridge allows easy access across the city, and—with direct trains to Gatwick—out.

Although hotels in the area are mainly geared toward business travelers and sometimes lack the convivial atmosphere of elsewhere in the city, that does mean there’s a good chance of picking up a room on a last minute deal. And that means more money to spend on the area’s numerous attractions.

The brightly decorated bar at the CitizenM Bankside is open ’round the clock. Photo: Rosapolis.

Where to Stay

CitizenM London Bankside
20 Lavington Street
Doubles from $180 to $330

It’s illustrative of the kind of changes going on in the area that Southwark was selected as the first London location for this rapidly expanding contemporary chain. The formula remains the same here as in other branches: pristine but tiny space age-style rooms equipped with swish technology. Downstairs is devoted to a sociable communal area complete with designer chairs, quirky interior touches and a 24-hour bar.

ibis Styles London Southwark Rose
47 Southwark Bridge Road
Doubles from: $162 to $550

With an abundance of museums, galleries and independent shops in the neighborhood, Southwark is known for its sense of style. That’s probably why its been earmarked for both CitizenM and ibis Styles branches—the latter’s offering being the Southwark Rose. This hotel offers the reliability of the ibis chain with a just a little bit more pizzazz, and is a clean and comfortable base from which to explore the delights of the area. Décor is bright and bold and beds are reassuringly  comfy.

LSE Bankside House
24 Sumner Street
Doubles from: $112

If you’re after the location but are less bothered about the frills, LSE Bankside House offers a great budget summer alternative. Essentially it’s college accommodation made available to visitors over the summer vacation. There are 560 rooms available, all decorated in a uniform student style. Facilities are basic, but the rooms are very clean and offer  great value for London.

Chorizo and rocket sandwich? Yes, please! Photo: peripathetic.

Where to Eat

Borough Market
8 Southwark Street

You’ll be spoiled for cheap eats with a visit to London’s famous foodie paradise, Borough Market. It’s open every day of the week except Sunday, though you’ll encounter its full force if you visit on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday.

Be guided by your taste buds, but a firm favorite from the market’s huge number of stalls is Brindisa’s Chorizo sandwich: juicy chorizo, piquillo peppers and rocket served in a ciabatta roll for £3.95 (you’ll be able to spot the stall from the ever-present queue). Another pick is Roast—an upscale restaurant within the market—which offers their tasty fare through a takeaway booth for a fraction of its usual price. Their succulent roast pork and crackling roll comes highly recommended for £6.50.

Leon
7 Canvey Street, The Blue Fin Building

Leon is one of London’s best-loved food chains. Their slogan is “naturally fast food” and they feature healthy salads and hot dishes at lunch (all priced at around £5 to £7), with slightly more substantial food on offer each evening. Food is speedy and tastes indulgent but contains enough fresh ingredients and vitamins to keep your mom from worrying.  This spacious branch scores extra points due to its great location behind Tate Modern and its striking semi-industrial décor. It looks expensive but your check will tell you otherwise.

El Vergel
132 Webber Street

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys chumming up next to your neighbor at communal tables with your wine served by the tumbler, this unpretentious Latin American eatery could be the perfect place for you. It’s open for breakfast and lunch and serves up enticing specials each day alongside the traditional tacos and tortillas. The most popular item on the menu remains the generously portioned £7.50 Latin American breakfast, including scrambled eggs with salsa, chorizo, kidney beans and village bread, all washed down with tea or coffee.

The George Inn gives a taste of Dickensian London. Photo: Jon’s pics.

Where to Drink

The George Inn
75-77 Borough High Street

While not the cheapest pint in town, you do get a free tourist attraction thrown in with your drink at the George Inn. Dating to the seventeenth-century (even having been mentioned in novels by Charles Dickens), this remarkable coaching inn is now owned by the National Trust. Inside is as “olde worlde” as you might expect, with low oak beamed ceilings and quaint nooks to hole up for the evening in. There are plenty of tables set outside in the cobbled yard too, which are ideal for watching the world go by—as people have been doing in this spot for over 300 years.

The Lord Nelson
243 Union Street

It doesn’t look so promising from the outside—it’s a pub on the corner of a modern housing estate. And the décor—English eccentricity at its most kitsch—certainly won’t be to everyone’s taste. But it would be foolish to let those things prevent you from paying The Lord Nelson a visit. It has a great location close to Tate Modern, but not on the usual tourist trail, it’s got some of the friendliest service for miles around, and some of the cheapest pints too. Take time to enjoy their menu, which offers great home-cooked food at very reasonable prices.

A night at the Roxy might include dinner, drinks and a movie. Photo: STML.

Bonus: Roxy Bar & Screen
128–132 Borough High Street

Roxy is a nice enough bar in its own right but, on weekdays and Sundays, it’s also a great place to catch a cheap movie. For only £4 (about a third of the price of most London cinema tickets), you can sit back in one of their comfy sofas and enjoy a screening. There’s usually a varied program of movies each week, including recent releases, special themed double-bills, as well as sing-alongs and artier offerings.

With a sociable atmosphere and tasty food alongside the drinks menu, it makes an enjoyable and wallet-friendly alternative to the multiplex.

Interested in other neighborhoods?

Check out our Cheapo guides to Soho and South Kensington.  And for a look at the whole city’s hotel scene, take a look at our London listings!

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Here’s our Cheapo guide to enjoying Soho for less:

Where To Stay

The Seven Dials Hotel will put you very close to Covent Garden.

Seven Dials Hotel
7 Monmouth Street, WC2H 9DA
Doubles from $159

Found in the more upmarket Covent Garden end of the area, the Seven Dials is a good and basic family-run hotel. In the tradition of Soho’s finest establishments, it’s slightly crammed and dated, but its location – in the midst of London’s theaterland and some of the city’s most vibrant nightlife – is undeniably brilliant.

YHA Oxford Street
14 Noel Street, W1F 8GJ
Doubles from $62

Given its position in the heart of Soho, the YHA could happily sit back and sell itself simply on the strengths of its location. Instead, this hostel’s bright and fresh décor and useful amenities (which include its own café) put some more expensive hotels to shame. Rooms on the higher floors even get a view of the London Eye thrown in for free.

Give your arteries a break at Bi Bim Bap. Photo: Richard Lee

Where To Eat

Bi Bim Bap
11 Greek Street, W1D 4DJ

When your arteries are crying out for something other than the traditional English stodge of chips and crisps, aim for a Korean Bibimbap bowl of hearty and healthy fare. With prices starting from £6.95, dishes range from the “nutritious” (a virtuous combination of brown rice, dates, ginkgo, chestnuts and ginseng) to the slightly more indulgent spicy pork. It’s worth paying extra for the deliciousness of adding a fried egg to your bowl, but eschew the expensive bottled beer in favor of the £1 Korean or Green tea.

Gaby’s Diner
30 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0DE

Tottering on the brink of closure due to a hefty rent hike, a well-publicized public campaign backed by several of Britain’s most celebrated actors has given Gaby’s Deli a momentary reprieve and has let lovers of its Middle Eastern fare breathe a temporary sigh of relief. Gaby’s has been a reliable source of cheap and tasty falafel since the 1960s – it’s even been claimed it was the first in London to sell the stuff. Sit in to enjoy a salt beef bagel and show your support, or take out a hefty container filled with a selection from their well-stocked salad bar for only £3.

Gaby’s Diner has been a reliable source of cheap and delicious Middle Eastern food since the 1960s. Photo: el dweebio

Gelupo
7 Archer Street, W1D 7AU

The little sister to the pricey but oh-so-tasty Bocca di Lupo across the road, Gelupo’s innovative gelato and granita flavors (try the burnt caramel or ricotta coffee and honey) draw crowds for a £3 double scoop. Lesser known, but more of a bargain, are the sandwiches available for the same price. Made in the kitchens at Bocca di Lupo, they’ve got fillings more unusual than the average lunch offerings (spicy pork paste, anyone?). Grab a coffee, too, and perch at one of their stools to watch the city go by. Their deli section also sells freshly-made pasta sauce for livening up self-catering options.

Stockpot
18 Old Compton Street, W1D 4TN

With a clientele that seems to encompass both Soho’s has-beens and next-big-things, Stockpot’s wooden booths and laminate menus look as though they may not have been altered since the café opened back in the 1950s. Stockpot’s undeniable appeal is the option of a three-course meal in central London for less than £10. Serving classic British “nursery” food – such as breaded chicken, pork chops or spaghetti Bolognese, with crumble or sponge pudding with custard to follow – it’s practically the definition of cheap but cheerful.

Bradley’s Spanish Bar is scruffy but friendly. Photo: Ewan-M

Where To Drink

Bradley’s Spanish Bar
42–44 Hanway Street, W1T 1UT

It’s definitely the tackier side of Spanish culture celebrated at this scruffy but friendly dive bar – think tequila rather than tapas. Spread over two levels, Bradley’s is rightly proud of its jukebox, with a selection of vinyl dating from the birth of rock ‘n roll through to the present. The bottled beer is on the expensive side, so go “continental” and plump for the wine instead. Or, for brave souls, there’s always the house special of Tequila Sangrita.

Glasshouse Stores
55 Brewer Street, W1F 9UJ

For all of its long-standing reputation for debauched drinking, it’s difficult to find a decent and affordable pint in Soho. Glasshouse Stores is a Samuel Smith pub, a Northern brewery whose formula of cheap pints served in traditional surroundings has won them a cult-like following. With its ornate glass fittings and regulars propping up the bar, this pub certainly looks the part. Ask nicely and they might even enlighten you on the obscure rules of their bar billiards table.

Glasshouse Stores is a reliable pick for a cheap pint with old-fashioned atmosphere. Photo: SBA73

New Evaristo Club
57 Greek Street, W1D 3DY

Fortune favors the brave at this drinking den. Once you’ve found your way through its unmarked doorway and downstairs past the bouncers (you may have to ask someone to sign you in), you’re rewarded with nothing grander than a room decorated with a few chairs and tables and some pictures of Italian footballers and boxers. The appeal lies in the club’s convivial spirit, its devoted, long-serving clientele, and its basic and basically-priced booze which makes for the kind of nights that become Soho legend. It’s great fun but not for the faint of heart.

Bonus

Ray’s Jazz at Foyles
113–119 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0EB

Bibliophiles will find it hard to escape Foyles – a huge bookstore dating back over 100 years – even before discovering Ray’s Jazz, their café-cum-music venue on the first floor. By day, enjoy great coffees and cakes and free Wi-Fi to the soundtrack of jazz records. In the evenings and on the weekend, you can catch some of the world’s best jazz musicians performing for free. Look at their website to find out who is playing next.

The post London: A Cheapo guide to Soho’s hotels, restaurants and bars appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Trust me, nobody wants that, so I’ve summarized my favorite central London neighborhoods for a smooth stay in the capital:

Best for night owls: Soho

If you want to limit the need to use public transport and really immerse yourself in London’s buzz then Soho is your place. The neighborhood comprises the streets running behind Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus and up to Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road and it buzzes day and night.

The area used to be renowned as a somewhat seedy, red light hub, but it has cleaned up its act and today trendy restaurants and bars stand alongside cabaret clubs and drag shows, giving it a truly unique vibe. It is certainly lively and staying here will not guarantee you a quiet night’s sleep. However, it does mean that shops, theaters, restaurants, bars and nightlife are quite literally on your doorstep so you can really make the most of what London has to offer.

London’s National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are also just around the corner in Trafalgar Square, and a lot of other areas are walkable. Regent’s Park is a short stroll away or you can head to Charing Cross and across the river to the South Bank in a matter of minutes.

Click here to read reviews of recommended budget hotels in Soho.

Bayley Street exudes a typical Bloomsbury charm. Photo: Stephane Goldstein

Best for serious sightseers: Bloomsbury

Another wonderfully central location, Bloomsbury is one of London’s prettiest and most traditional areas, filled with beautiful Georgian architecture and punctuated by tree-lined streets and large, leafy squares. Traditionally the city’s literary quarter, today the area is home to the University of London and a whole lot of museums.

Although located on the other side of Tottenham Court Road from Soho, the pace of life in this part of town feels more relaxed. While nightlife, shopping and theaters are all nearby, residents of Bloomsbury have easy access to the British Museum, the Charles Dickens Museum, the Foundling Museum and many more quirky attractions such as the Cartoon Museum. Gower Street is lined with affordable B&B’s, perfect for couples and small groups of friends, the Arosfa Hotel comes highly recommended.

Click here to read reviews of recommended budget hotels in Bloomsbury.

Best for city dwellers: Southwark

Southwark’s old cobbled streets really give a taste for what London once was. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to get a real taste of city living and wander the streets that Bridget Jones traversed in the movies. Today the area is home to an exciting amalgamation of old and new, as beautiful old buildings stand next to iconic new landmarks like The Shard.

Located just south of the River Thames, visitors to Southwark have easy access to everything on the South Bank, from free, open-air performances at the National Theatre in the summer, to festive Christmas markets in the winter. In terms of sightseeing, Southwark is packed with things to see, including the Tate Modern, the tasty foodie treats at Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe, the London Dungeon and the Design Museum. Without a doubt, the neighborhood’s jewel in the crown has to be the majestic Southwark Cathedral, London’s oldest church cathedral building.

Click here to read reviews of recommended budget hotels in Southwark.

Want to read about more London neighborhoods? Check out our previous article on choosing the right neighborhood for your trip.

Your favorite London neighborhood?

Do you have a favorite neighborhood for your trip to London? Tell us about it in the comments section.

Also in our guide: Heading to London and looking for an affordable place to sleep? We’ve been there. Our editors hunt down and inspect budget hotels in London and recommend only the best. To see all the neighborhoods we’ve visited in London, check out our London guide.

The post London: Which neighborhood is right for your trip? appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

When choosing the neighborhood for your London hotel or B&B, Bloomsbury is an attractive choice. Here are some things to think about before “booking it” in Bloomsbury:

Advantages of staying here-

Location, location! Bloomsbury has access to all major forms of transport, so it’s easy to dine in Soho, see a show in the West End, or do some shopping in Piccadilly Circus before heading home for the night.

Its proximity to the British Museum makes it a shoe-in for art aficionados, and book nerds will love meandering the streets in search of the blue plaques that mark the former homes and haunts of writers like Charles Dickens and George Bernard Shaw.

Today, Ricky Gervais, star of the British version of “The Office”, lives in Bloomsbury’s Tavistock Square. (Isn’t that reason enough?)

Disadvantages of staying here-

Bloomsbury, it’s no secret, can get expensive. Well, most of London can. However, budget hotels and cheap B&Bs can be found in the area.  A little bit of research will go a long way in finding the right hotel. Check out the hotels we recommend in Bloomsbury.

If all the good picks are booked up, try staying in the nearby Kings Cross area, which often has cheaper hotel offerings, and benefits from easy access to Bloomsbury and central London.

And, if you’ve ever stayed in Bloomsbury, tell us what you thought in the comments section below.

The post London neighborhood spotlight: Bloomsbury appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.