There’s a reason why it’s the most visited tourist attraction in the UK: it has an amazing collection of artifacts, dating back thousands of years and drawn from all over the world. Plus, it probably doesn’t hurt that the price is right (always free admission).

Related: 20 Free museums in London that we love

But with nearly 7 million visitors attending the museum each year, it can get a bit hectic in there. Here are seven British Museum tips to get the most out of your visit.

Tips for visiting the British Museum

1. Try to avoid peak times

Okay, let’s be realistic here — the British Museum is never going to be the quietest spot in London. However, you can visit when it’s a little quieter. Aim to arrive for the 10 a.m. opening, or come later on a Friday, when the museum closes at 8:30 p.m. Check out what special temporary exhibitions are on — if it is a really popular show, the museum gets especially full for the show’s opening or closing weeks.

Don’t be tempted to save your trip for a rainy day — the museum is at its busiest when it’s bad weather outside. Instead, tackle it on a sunnier day: The sun shining through the glass roof of the Great Court means the museum is at its most handsome, as well as quietest.

Related: Affordable hotels near the British Museum

The Parthenon Sculptures are one of the biggest attractions at the British Museum. Photo: Bram S

2. Tackle the biggies first

You’re first through the door at 10 a.m., and your aim is to get to the big sights before everyone else does. First up, the Rosetta Stone, the discovery that provided the breakthrough in understanding Egyptian hieroglyphics. It’s in room 4, the Egyptian Sculpture gallery on the ground floor, which is straight off the Great Court.

Head onward through the galleries to get to room 18, where the Parthenon Sculptures are displayed. Also known as the Elgin Marbles, these were originally part of the Parthenon in Athens and were removed and taken to Britain in the early 19th century. The debate continues whether these should be kept in the British Museum or returned to Greece. Decide for yourself before heading upstairs to room 70 to get a taste of Rome and the Portland Vase, the cameo glass vase that has inspired generations of makers, poets, and scholars.

If you are feeling brave and you’re still ahead of the crowds, rooms 62-63 displays some of the Ancient Egypt collection, most famously the mummies. Finally, it’s back downstairs to room 24, the “Living and Dying” gallery, which includes Hoa Hakananai’a, an imposing Easter Island statue. Then, make your way back out to the Great Court and treat yourself to a cup of tea and a slice of cake from the café — you deserve it.

3. Prepare in advance

That brief tour only skims the huge amount the British Museum has to offer. There’s a great podcast that uses a hundred of the museum’s objects to tell the history of the world. Listen ahead of your visit to be inspired.

Although entry to the museum and the permanent exhibits is completely free, there are charges for special exhibitions. Save yourself time by booking tickets for these online. You’ll be given a timed ticket, so you don’t have to waste time waiting in line once you’re inside the museum.

4. Don’t neglect the lesser-known galleries

The British Museum has beautiful and fascinating objects all over the world, so it’s rewarding to spend time in some of the less famous galleries. After the crowds that fill the Egyptian Galleries, the Japanese Galleries offer a more serene atmosphere in which to appreciate the beauty of their objects. While the British Museum isn’t as well known for its fine art as other London galleries, the Prints and Drawings galleries always show wonderful examples by undisputed masters of the medium.

The massive central hall of the British Museum with a giant glass roof. Photo: Spiros K

5. Take your time

Because entry to the British Museum is free to enter, don’t feel the pressure to do it all in one go. You could spread your visit over a series of mornings, or pop outside to get some fresh air and a change of scenery if the crowds and all the culture are becoming slightly overwhelming. There are plenty of fantastic (and affordable) places nearby to grab some food or a drink.

6. …Or see it all in 90 minutes

If you are pressed for time, the British Museum runs a fantastic introductory tour to its collections called ‘Around the World in 90 Minutes’, which takes place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It does exactly what it says it will, taking in the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon Sculptures, as well as lesser known marvels along the way, and taking up just an hour and a half of your valuable time. Tickets cost £14 and you can book in advance through the museum website.

7. Consider becoming a member

If you are a serious culture vulture and are going to be around in London for longer than a short break, it’s probably worthwhile to become a museum member. Cost start at £74 for a year’s membership (£54 if you are under 26 years old). Perks include a dedicated cloakroom (so no waiting to deposit bags or umbrellas) and free unlimited entry to all special exhibitions as well as special evenings and events. Find out more here.

The British Museum

Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (8:30 p.m. on Fridays)
Website
Tube: Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square or Goodge Street

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From the big name galleries to smaller art initiatives, entry fees have been waived across the capital so even if you’re sticking to cheap eats, you can still do high-end luxury when it comes to art. Here are our favorite free art museums in London.

London’s free national museums

All London’s national museums offer free entry, so whether you’re opting for a quick dose of artistic inspiration while taking cover from the rain, or you plan to spend all day admiring some of the world’s best loved paintings, you won’t need to spend a penny. Do be warned that some of the temporary exhibitions charge an entry fee and that you may well need to book in advance, but the permanent collections are always free.

National Gallery

A good place to start is at the National Gallery. Located in a beautiful building overlooking Trafalgar Square (tube: Leicester Square or Charing Cross), the gallery houses an impressive collection of more than 2,300 Western European paintings from the 13th to early 20th centuries. Here you can admire a historic Botticelli or a forward-thinking Van Gogh, taking in everything from Michelangelo and Rembrandt to Monet, Velazquez and Goya as you go. If you’re looking to delve beyond the paintings, check out the National Gallery’s upcoming free events.

National Portrait Gallery

Just around the corner, don’t forget to stop by at the National Portrait Gallery. Here you can peruse the largest collection of portraits in the world, from Tudor and Elizabethan portraits, through to contemporary works such as the painting of Kate Middleton.

Tate Collections

A trip to London just wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one of the famous Tate collections. The Tate Britain in Millbank (tube: Pimlico or Westminster) is a celebration of British art, with paintings ranging from the 1500s to the present day. Expect to see works by the likes of Turner (the museum also runs the famous annual Turner Prize), as well as William Blake and more modern pieces by Tracey Emin.

In turn, the Tate Modern is found across the river and housed in the austere-looking former Bankside Power Station (tube: Southwark, Bankside or London Bridge). As the name suggests, the museum focuses on an impressive collection of contemporary art, both British and international, from the 1900s to the present day.

Saatchi Gallery

For something a bit more offbeat, head to London’s Saatchi Gallery, where Cheapos can peruse innovative, unseen contemporary art without parting with a penny. The museum is located on King’s Road, in the well-heeled borough of Chelsea (tube: Sloane Square), and aims to bring new and unsung artists into the limelight in the UK. The ground-floor exhibitions are typically free, but some exhibitions do require advance booking and an entry fee.

Serpentine Gallery

A trip to Hyde Park can also be given an artistic touch by popping into the beautiful Serpentine Galleries in Kensington Gardens (tube: Lancaster Gate, South Kensington or Knightsbridge). These modern and contemporary art spaces also showcase fantastical feats of architecture when a different architect is challenged to design the Serpentine Pavilion each summer.

Away from the traditional galleries

London’s artistic offering does not just have to be enjoyed inside the more formal, traditional art galleries.

If your trip to London coincides with the first Thursday of the month, then make it your mission to attend the Whitechapel Gallery’s First Thursdays, which sees East London galleries and museums stay open until 9 p.m. with special exhibitions, talks and events. Get informed by joining a walking tour led by an artist or curator or visit the top five exhibitions on the free art bus.

Or, why not support London’s rising artistic talents by visiting a degree show? University College London’s Slade School of Fine Art is one of the most highly acclaimed art schools in the world, and throughout May and June each year, the doors are opened to the public for the undergraduate and postgraduate degree shows. It’s free and well worth a look – you never know, you may just bump into a star of the future.

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Stocking up on flowers

In what has to be the city’s most vibrant market, every Sunday East London’s Columbia Road comes alight with exotic and locally grown flowers, plants, bulbs and planters. The ideal place for anyone who likes a spot of bartering, there is always a fantastic atmosphere among traders and shoppers alike.

Even if you’re not looking to buy, the different types of flowers are a truly magnificent sight and really good fun to photograph. But I would be left openmouthed by anyone who manages to walk away completely empty-handed—even the most frugal of Cheapos is bound to be seduced by the vast array of blooms on offer—on a recent visit a German friend of mine was even seen heading home on Easyjet with a bunch of hardy semi-dried flowers that last forever!

A vendor with his flower displays at the Columbia Road Market. Photo: Jerome Yewdalll

Get there as early as you can if you want to avoid the crowds (the market opens at 8 AM and closes at 3 PM every single Sunday of the year) or, if you’re on the hunt for a real bargain, arrive around 2 PM when you’ll get the best prices.

Related: 4 weekend markets in London for bargain hunting (and people watching)

Eating and drinking on a budget

While London’s East End continues to become more and more trendy, sometimes it’s a real treat to stumble upon a traditional “caff” or a proper local pub that have stood the test of time. Columbia Road’s increasing popularity means that there are plenty of cool bars and beautiful but pricey vintage shops lining the street, but you’ll get the best value for money if you stick to the more traditional no-frills options.

After some flowering shopping, stop in for a freshly brewed cup of tea at Cafe Columbia. Photo: buttongrrrl

Head to Cafe Columbia (138 Columbia Road) for some breakfast or lunch and you’ll be biting into a bit of an institution. This family-run cafe has long been serving up tasty bagels, sweets and warming cups of English tea to market traders and busy shoppers and it’s cheap as chips! There is even a miniature garden out the back – ideal for when the sun is shining.

If you’re after something a bit more hearty then a Sunday roast at the Royal Oak (73 Columbia Road) is sure to hit the spot. A beautiful, wood paneled old “boozer”, this is the kind of pub Londoner’s miss when they go on holiday.

Related: Affordable Sunday roast meals around London for under £15

A bit of free culture

These days there’s a lot more to do around Columbia Road than buy flowers. Once you’ve been fed and watered, why not explore some of the free independent galleries and art shops, many of which only open their doors to the public on Sundays. The Columbia Road Gallery, located in The Courtyard on adjoining Ezra Street, mainly showcases the work of Cornish artists and boasts an ever changing portfolio of new and emerging talent. Meander round the corner to The Yard and you’ll find yourself surrounded by vintage clothes and furniture, as well as plenty of tasty food and drink stalls (many of which offer free tastings).

Nelly Duff is a good shop for artsy fun along Columbia Road. Photo: Julian Walker

In stark comparison, wander into Nelly Duff (156 Colombia Road) and be treated to street, tattoo and graphic artworks. This eclectic mix and constantly evolving mish mash of old and new, traditional and quirky, is really what makes this little corner of London so enticing and always worth a peek, even if you’ve been a hundred times before.

Columbia Road Flower Market

Every Sunday 8 AM-3 PM
Neighborhood: Tower Hamlets
Tube: Bethnal Green or Old Street Station
www.columbiaroad.info

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Our “Cheapo Culture” series is exploring ways for budget travelers to experience the best of high-culture at low prices. We’ve also covered cheap theatre tickets in London, and free museums. Now, let’s talk about where to find free and cheap classic music concerts.

Free lunchtime and evening concerts and venues

You can get your share of classical music at a number of completely free concerts in London. Here’s a quick overview:

• Monday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm); Royal Opera House (1 pm); St. James Church (1:10 pm)
• Tuesday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm)
• Wednesday: St. James Church (1:10 pm)
• Thursday: Southbank Sinfonia (St. John’s Waterloo Church – 6 pm)
• Friday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm); St. James Church (1:10 pm)

Here’s some information about each of these concerts:

St. Martin in the Fields by Trafalgar Square runs lunchtime recitals on Monday, Tuesday and Fridays, and encourages classical music fans to drop by and enjoy them. The concerts run from 1 pm-2 pm and the program, announced online, can range from vocal recitals and student performances, to organ music and classical quartets.

Similarly, beautiful St. James’s Church in Piccadilly Circus offers free lunchtime recitals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:10 pm. Donations of £3.50 are encouraged at both St. James’s and St. Martin in the Fields.

Alternatively, you can head to the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden on a Monday at 1 pm for an exclusive free concert showcasing the young rising stars of the classical music world. You will need a ticket to attend one of these concerts, some of which are available online nine days beforehand, while the remaining tickets are available from the Royal Opera House box office from 10 am on the day of the concert.

If music in the evening is more to your liking then drop in on the Southbank Sinfonia’s Rush Hour concerts. Held every Thursday from 6 pm-7:15 pm at St. John’s Waterloo Church, it’s a lovely, relaxed way to start the weekend and you even get a glass of wine on arrival!

Affordable classical music in London

Excellent value tickets are on offer at a number of London’s most popular venues, so if you’re willing to spend between £9 and £20, you can be guaranteed a great night out. Here are some ways to score a cheapo classical ticket:

Home of the Conway Hall Ethical Society, Conway Hall in Holborn runs a fantastic program of chamber music concerts on Sunday evenings and you can get yourself a ticket for just £9. Most concerts start at 6:30 pm and you can buy a ticket from the box office from 5:45pm.

It’s also well worth checking out the programs of the British Youth Opera and Opera Holland Park, as there are usually a smattering of £12 tickets on offer at each of their concerts.

If your heart is set on seeing a performance at the English National Opera (ENO), then opt for one of their “Secret Seats”. For £20 you’ll be guaranteed a seat worth at least £25, possibly a lot more, and you’ll only find out where you’re actually going to sit three days before the show.

For a last minute bargain, keep an eye on Intermezzo, where amazing offers and last minute classical music deals are listed.

London’s summer of music

Finally, classical music fans should not make a summer visit to London without attending the BBC Proms. This musical extravaganza takes place over two months each summer and always promises an impressive line up of concerts at the spectacular Royal Albert Hall. Restricted view tickets are available to some concerts for as little as £7.50, but true Cheapos will love the £5 “Promming” tickets. These give access to a standing place in the Gallery or Arena areas and are released on the day so you don’t even need to book in advance.

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We recently asked our London correspondent, Nina Derham, to pull together a blockbuster itinerary for London-bound tourists intent on taking in as much as possible in one day. Here’s a sampling from her one-day itinerary, which we’ve just published in our London guide:

1. Start with a morning coffee from Borough Market.

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Cheapo’s counting those precious pences will be relieved to hear that London is also full of amazing views that aren’t accessed via a turnstile and ticket booth. Here’s my list of the best free views in London:

1. Waterloo Bridge

Tube: Embankment / Waterloo

Of London’s 33 bridges that cross the River Thames, Waterloo definitely has the most impressive views. Looking east you can take in St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Oxo Tower, Somerset House and the National Theatre. Look westwards and you can take in the bustle of busy shoppers and street performers along the South Bank, the London Eye, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Visit during the day to take photos and in the evening to admire it all lit up at night.

Looking out from Parliament Hill. Photo: Duncan Harris

2. Parliament Hill

Tube: Hampstead

Hampstead Heath’s famous “Kite Hill” has featured in TV commercials and films aplenty over the years, as its wonderful juxtaposition of rolling fields and greenery backed by London’s iconic cityscape is so unusual. Many visitors to the capital don’t know that you can escape the madness of the city with such ease (and without actually leaving the city).

A brisk walk through Hampstead Heath is enough to revive any weary tourist and a stroll to the top of Parliament Hill is always rewarding. Join dozens of dog walkers and kite enthusiasts at the top of the hill, and enjoy an elevated view of the city from afar. Canary Wharf used to be the focal point, but The Shard’s recent appearance is certainly stealing the limelight on London’s skyline today.

Relaxing on Primrose Hill. Photo: Peretzp

3. Primrose Hill

Tube: Chalk Farm

Tucked away behind Chalk Farm and Camden Town, Primrose Hill is on the northern edge of Regent’s Park. From the top of the hill you’ll get an incredible panorama of central London and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day. Heading down Regent’s Park Road towards Chalk Farm you’ll also find a pretty selection of boutique-y shops and some lovely pubs.

4. National Portrait Gallery

Tube: Charing Cross / Leicester Square

A trip to the National Portrait Gallery isn’t just for the exceptional artwork. Make sure you don’t leave without stopping for a drink at the very swanky rooftop Portrait Restaurant and Bar. Admire everything from Nelson’s Column and Trafalgar Square in the foreground, to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye in the background.

Also in our guide: If you’re heading to London and looking for an affordable place to sleep, be sure to read our reviews of budget hotels in London. Our editors have hunted down the best values in the city’s accommodation scene. Read more in our London guide.

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Enter Street Art London, a small operation run by some incredibly passionate guides who seem to know all there is to know about the city’s best street art. Tours are currently running on Saturdays and Sundays and cost £15.

Street Art London

I decided to give it a go and went along to one of the Saturday tours which start at Old Street station in East London at 11 a.m. I was surprised to find another 25 people shivering away and waiting for the tour to start, a testament to the fact that London’s street art really is worth seeing.

James Cochrane paints those he’s met along the way.

The tour changes, of course, depending on whether new pieces of art have gone up, if works have been buffed over by the council or even painted over by other artists.

A sticky start

I must admit, our tour didn’t start as I’d imagined. Our guides herded us across the road and we huddled around to squint at a new piece by Ben Wilson, a street artist who solely focuses on painting miniature artworks on chewing gum stuck to the pavement. Even if you needed a magnifying glass to see the minute detail, it was pretty incredible.

The tour wound its way around Hoxton and into Brick Lane, stopping at pieces by some of the UK’s biggest street artists like Stik, who’s simple yet strangely emotive “stik” people hover in doorways and high up on billboards all over the city. We even caught a glimpse of a few perspex-covered artworks by Banksy.

Roa’s monochromatic animals lord over abandoned buildings.

We were left open-mouthed as our guides explained that while the legendary Banksy has the support of the council, he has ruffled a few feathers with other graffiti artists who set out to deface his work as soon as a new piece goes up. It was these stories that really added color – finding out where an artist is from, what their background is and what their work stands for really brought it to life.

Bastardilla’s lively pieces really stood out, but more so when our guides explained they were a commentary on the diamond trade in her native Colombia. Australian-born James Cochrane’s multi-layered portraits of locals and people he has met on his travels perfectly illustrated the high quality of the art you can find on the street.

We were also treated to numerous pieces of awe-inspiring artwork by Belgian artist, Roa. Roa’s somewhat fantastical and larger-than-life monochrome animals grace the sides of derelict buildings and peer out of forgotten corners of the city, as though London’s underworld was being run by oversized storks and snoozing warthogs.

It’s easy to pass Pablo Delgado’s tiny works without noticing.

Making the streets fun (and fun of the streets)

Beyond these big statement pieces, the tour also opened my eyes to previously unnoticed humorous ideas that make walking the streets of London a lot more fun. Pablo Delgado’s miniature characters that reside on the very bottom of walls, Christiaan Negal’s mushrooms that sit on top of buildings, and the mysterious ceramic pigs that have started to appear in the city… They all seem to be smirking at the busy pedestrians, who mostly pass by without noticing. They brighten up the streets and, if you spot one, will make you smile.

In the end the tour lasted five hours instead of four, giving us our money’s worth. This was largely because the guides kept thinking of more things to show us. (It might be worth taking a snack with you as there is no break for lunch.)

Most importantly, the tour lets you in on a secret. It opens your eyes to what’s right before you in the streets of London.

For more information visit Street Art London.

Also in our guide: If you’re wandering the streets of London looking for a great affordable place to sleep, check out our London guide. All of our recommended hotels have been visited, inspected and reviewed by our editors.

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Once you’ve pounded the streets of London visiting museums and emptying your wallet at the shops, you’ll likely be in need of some fresh air. Cambridge makes for an ideal getaway from the hectic buzz of London and, best of all, it is easily doable in a day.

Getting to Cambridge from London

Fast trains leave from London Kings Cross to Cambridge twice an hour and the journey takes just 45 minutes. You can also catch the train from Liverpool Street Station, which takes 1 hour 10 minutes. For the best value train fare, travel off-peak (after 9:30 a.m). Book online.

As one of the world’s most famous and prestigious university towns, Cambridge has a sense of pride about it. The streets are clean and pretty much everything is aesthetically pleasing. The city has something for you year round, whether you plan to explore the great outdoors in the summer months or huddle up by an open fire in one of the city’s beautiful old pubs (of which there are about 119).

The Backs from Clare College.

That famous University…

Most visitors will want to explore Cambridge University‘s stunning buildings, which are dotted all over the city. Cheapos should be warned, many of the most famous colleges do charge to get inside, meaning that spending the day ducking in and out of University buildings could cost a small fortune.

My advice to travelers on a budget is to admire the fantastic architecture from the outside and get a feel for things by wandering around some of the free colleges as well. Trinity College is the largest in Cambridge and offers free admission. Thus, be sure to visit Trinity’s spacious courtyard and have a snoop at how these most privileged of students live. (It certainly doesn’t bear much resemblance to my university halls!)

If you are willing to spend to visit one building, King’s College is the place to do it (admission from £7.50). Head to the back entrance to gain access to the magnificently Gothic King’s College Chapel for Evensong.

The quirky and hobbit-like Round Church.

Alternatively, Clare College is just next door and visitors can explore the grounds at no cost at all. Stroll through the college and out into The Backs for a peaceful roam around the University gardens and along the River Cam.

Be warned that visitors aren’t allowed into the University buildings during the examination period from the end of April – mid June. However, you can still access the King’s College Chapel during this time.

Beyond the University make time to stop by the wonderfully quirky and hobbit-like Round Church. Also admire the view from Magdalene Bridge and have a look around the lively central market.

Punting in Cambridge

Popular with students, locals and tourists alike, punting along the River Cam comes highly recommended even during the chilly winter months. Grab a spot in one of the long wooden punts from £15 with a chauffeur. Alternatively, groups of up to six people can rent their own punt from £18 per hour and make their own way around.

Do be warned though Cheapos: If you haven’t been punting before, it is harder than it looks! Savings are to be had if you book online in advance.

Punting on the River Cam.

Eating and drinking

Mill Road is a favorite with students and is packed with affordable eateries serving up food from all around the world, from Brazil to Lebanon.

Alternatively, try one of Cambridge’s lively pubs, which are bursting with character day and night:

The Eagle (8 Benet Street) is a remarkable slice of traditional pub life, with multiple dining rooms lined with wood paneling. It is also famous for being the spot were Francis Crick and James Watson went to celebrate following their discovery of DNA in 1953.

The Castle Inn (36 Castle Street) is a really welcoming pub with open fires and lots of cozy corners. It’s a little bit off the main drag but well worth the walk.

If you’re feeling extravagant or celebrating a special occasion then The Cambridge Chop House is the place to do it. The menu is bursting with mouthwatering steaks, stews and perfectly cooked fish. You can even opt for squirrel if you’re feeling daring before jumping on the train back to London.

For more information on Cambridge see Visit Britain or the official Cambridge tourism website.

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While London has been known to disappoint during the summer months due to the lack of, well, summer, one thing this capital really knows how to do is winter. As autumn fades away and the temperature drops, London comes alive with sparkling lights, bustling shopping streets, cozy cafes and pubs that beckon you in out of the cold.

To make things even better, there are plenty of festive activities to suit even the most meager of budgets. So what are you waiting for? Pull on that hat and scarf and follow these simple tips to make the most of Christmas in London!

Regent Street Christmas lights

Most of London’s Christmas lights get turned on in the first and second weeks of November, a lot earlier than much of Europe. While all of the main shopping centers will be festooned with twinkling lights, most visitors head to the Regent Street lights which, in recent years, have been sponsored by the latest animated film release (this year it is “Arthur Christmas”).

Die hard festive fans may complain about them being sponsored at all, but I can tell you that it is a lot better than the year they were sponsored by Tango… that was, without a doubt, the least Christmas-y thing I have ever seen.

Lights in Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Central London

Oxford Street and Covent Garden are the other main places to wander around and admire the lights, as well as stopping by at Trafalgar Square’s Norwegian Christmas Tree, where carol services are held daily between December 5-22.

However, it is central London’s smaller streets that always outshine the rest. Pretty St Christopher’s Place, trendy Carnaby Street and well-heeled South Molton Street, all of which are tucked away behind Oxford Street, appear to partake in an annual battle to see who can come up with the most creative, atmospheric and visually stunning Christmas lights – undoubtedly the best in London, these streets should not be missed.

Christmas markets

If you’ve had enough of London’s high streets, why not look for inspiration at a Christmas market? Depending on where you go, this can make bagging a bargain just a bit easier and is also a far more festive way to shop.

German Christmas Market at Southbank Centre
Through December 24, 2011

The German Christmas market at the Southbank Centre should be your first port of call, where traditional wooden market stalls light up the banks of the River Thames between November 18 – December 24, selling everything from glühwein and bratwurst to trinkets and gifts.

From December 16-23 the German market will be joined by the Real Food Market – the perfect place to find a present for the Foodie in your life, or stock up on some tasty surprises for Christmas lunch.

The Water Poet Christmas fair
December 10, 2011

Saturday December 10, 2011 is the day to head to east London as The Water Poet in Spitalfields holds its fun-filled Christmas fair between 12-7 p.m. There will be scrumptious food from around the world (including a hog roast), plenty of spiced mulled wine, quirky vintage gifts and even a brass band. Not to be missed.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Through January 3, 2012

By far and away London’s biggest nod to the festive season is Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (November 18, 2011- January 3, 2012). When this opened five years ago it did leave rather a lot to be desired, but every year it has got bigger and better and now really does make for a fun day out for all ages.

An ice rink, Ferris wheel, circus and “Santa Land” are among the attractions, as well as handicrafts, Christmas decorations and gift ideas at the Angels Christmas Market. There is also a huge choice of bars and restaurants so you can eat and drink to your heart’s content – the Bavarian Village and the Carousel Bar are highly recommended.

Also in our guide: Heading to London this holiday season and overwhelmed by the hotel prices? We’ve been there! Stop by EuroCheapo’s Guide to Affordable London. Our editors visit, inspect and photograph budget hotels in central London and pick the best.

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Here are five suggestions for cheap things to do in London when it rains:

1. Explore the universe: The Science Museum
Exhibition Road, South Kensington
Open: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
Admission: Free
Website

Museums and galleries are the obvious choice for a rainy day and London is bursting with them – many of which offer free admission. Our pick to keep spirits high once the heavens have opened is The Science Museum. Most Londoners harbor fond memories of fun-filled school trips to this place but it isn’t just for kids – the Science Museum offers an array of exciting exhibitions across all areas of science and the spectacular IMAX cinema is the icing on the cake.

If you’re not all museum-ed out when you’ve finished exploring everything from astronomy to climate change, The V&A and The Natural History Museum are handily located just around the corner. The museum is located next to Hyde Park so it’s the perfect place to duck into for a couple of hours if your trip to the park gets rained off.

2. Release your inner child at Hamleys
188-196 Regent Street
Website

If you need to get out the rain while in London’s West End and you don’t fancy whiling away the hours in Topshop, then head to Hamleys, the world’s “finest” toy shop. This legendary toy superstore is over 250 years old and sells everything from classic games to the newest and most coveted toys. While many hate to admit it, adults can have just as much fun in here as children and it’s easy for time to slip by as you drift back to those carefree childhood days.

3. Shop till you drop (and stay under cover)
Website

If it looks as though the rain is here to stay the why not lift the spirits with a bit of retail therapy? The newly opened Westfield Stratford City is Europe’s biggest urban shopping center and is located right next to the Olympic Village. The complex houses pretty much every shop imaginable all under one roof, as well as numerous eateries, bars, cinemas and a bowling alley; it’s easy to spend the day here without getting bored.

If you are a long way from East London then head to the West London in Shepherds Bush. Of course it is free to browse but we take no responsibility for how much you end up spending!

4. Explore the other side of the South Bank

If you’ve done the Tate Modern and popular outdoor South Bank activities such as river boat cruises, walking tours and catching a play at The Globe Theatre get rained off, then head for cover at Namco Station. This hedonistic haven offers something for everyone with pool, bowling, dodgems, karaoke, arcade games from all around the world and a bar.

Alternatively, pay a trip next door to the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, home to over 500 species of marine life. The Aquarium boasts a special shark walk, interactive feeding and touch pools and is an excellent option for families with young children.

5. And if all else fails… make like a local and head to the pub!

It may not sound very inspired, but many a Brit will head straight to their “Local” for a pint to get out the rain. Some pubs also have board games behind the bar making it even easier to keep entertained until the rain passes. See our post on London’s best traditional pubs for some suggestions to get you started.

Also in our guide: Planning your trip to London? Let us help! Our editors have visited, inspected and reviewed dozens of inexpensive places to stay in central London. Find the perfect place for your trip in our guide to London.

The post London in the Rain: 5 cheap things to do on those rainy days appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.