However, there are some general tips that will make your trip to London go a bit easier (and a bit cheaper, as well). Take note of the following advice for exploring the city and enjoy your trip!

Related: Our favorite London hotels for budget travelers

London tips for a better trip

The Basics

1. Do remember your “please” and “thank you.”

The British sometimes have a reputation for being extra polite. While this isn’t always strictly true, we do like to pepper our speech with “please” and “thank you”. Adopt this habit and you’ll earn our thank yous! And if you bump into someone accidentally, always apologize — even if it wasn’t your fault. (It’s a bit weird, but you’ll see people doing it everywhere!)

2. Do keep it down.

Londoners tend to keep to themselves — and that means also keeping the volume down. You’ll notice that streets, public transportation, and even restaurants are relatively quiet (especially by American standards). Speaking loudly is one sure way to draw attention to the fact you’re a tourist.

3. Don’t block the way.

It’s a busy city, and people are usually on a mission to get somewhere. It’s really appreciated when visitors don’t block the exit of a tube train or stop in the middle of the street to check their map.

The biggest sin for Londoners, though? Standing on the left-hand side of the escalator, thus blocking others from passing. Always, always stand on the right. You’ve been warned!

Clothing

4. Do bring comfortable shoes.

You’ll be doing a lot of walking in London, so bring shoes for comfort. Unless you’re going somewhere particularly high end, dress codes tend to be fairly relaxed.

5. Don’t forget your umbrella.

Chances are it’ll rain while you’re in London (even in the height of summer). Come prepared.

Do… partake in the Full English Breakfast experience. Photo: Ewan Munro

Eating and drinking

6. Do try British favorites.

You’ll find plenty of U.S. chains here, but it wouldn’t be a proper trip to London without sampling dishes such as a Full English breakfast, a Sunday roast dinner, fish and chips or a tikka masala. An equally British tradition is our cosmopolitanism and diversity. You’ll find great cuisine from all over the world in the city. Make like a Londoner and try as many as you can!

Related: Five classic British dishes to try in London

7.  Do spend some time in a traditional British pub.

You haven’t experienced London until you’ve seen it through a pint glass (and you can always have a pint of lemonade if you don’t fancy trying bitter). Here are tips on navigating British pub culture.

8. Don’t tip like you would in the U.S.

The British don’t tip in a pub or a bar, or even when ordering pub food if it’s not table service. Save those pennies for extra drinks! Here’s our guide to tipping in London.

9. Do eat and drink somewhere other than Leicester Square.

The eateries surrounding this tourist zone are expensive and bad, and you’ll only be hanging out with fellow visitors. Check out our London nightlife guide for some pointers to some alternatives.

10. Don’t pay for your water in restaurants and pubs.

Safe-to-drink tap water should always be available for free.

Celtic Hotel is one of our favorite budget sleeps in the heart of London. Photo: Craig Nelson

Accommodations

11. Do pick a centrally located hotel.

There are loads of reasonably priced hotel options listed on EuroCheapo. Being able to walk to more places will save you time and money. Here are our favorite budget hotels in London.

12. Don’t skip your hotel breakfast.

Breakfast is included in the price of many hotels in London and will help you significantly save on eating out costs. If that rate includes an English Breakfast (like at the Celtic Hotel), eat up!

Safety

13. Don’t carry all your valuables on you.

It shouldn’t be necessary to take your passport out with you (leave it in the hotel safe instead). Be sensible about how you carry things around, too, and go for zipped bags rather than trouser pockets. Sadly there are opportunistic thieves in any city—why make their lives easier?

14. Don’t leave your bags or luggage unattended in public places.

Other than the fact that someone is likely to run off with them, they get treated very seriously. One unattended bag may spark the evacuation of an entire train station, so hold on to your belongings tight.

Do get tickets in advance for busy sites like the London Eye to score good discounts. Photo: Phil Dolby

Sightseeing

15. Don’t underestimate the size of London.

This city is huge! And you’re never going to see it all in on one trip. Rather than creating a crazy itinerary where you rush from one sight to the other, take it a bit easier and focus on your absolute must-dos. Check out these budget itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 days.

16. Do book ahead for major sights.

Once you’ve made your must-see list, take a look online and see if you can book in advance. Many places, such as the London Eye, offer discounts for advance booking online.

17. Do make the most of London’s free attractions.

Remember that most of London’s major museums are free, making the likes of the British Museum and the Tate accessible on even the tightest budget. Take advantage of these!

18. Do visit at least one of London’s markets.

Whether you choose to visit the Columbia Road Flower Market or the antiques of Portobello, London’s market offer unique and cheap entertainment.

19. Don’t ignore London’s green space.

Set aside some time to stroll in Hyde Park, or to take a trip up Primrose Hill. You’ll experience a much more relaxing side to the city. These green spaces are great places to have impromptu picnics, too.

Related: 10 Free things that will make you fall in love with London

20. Do get in line.

We Brits love to queue! If there’s a tourist attraction, popular café, or ATM, chances are we’ll be standing in line in front of it. We expect visitors to embrace our love of the queue, too. So apply patience, and definitely don’t think about pushing your way to the front.

Transport

21. Do try walking it.

If you’re staying in central London, most major sights will be in walking distance. It’s a much better way to see the city than crammed into the Tube.

22. Do embrace all forms of public transport.

It’s not all about the Tube. Catching a bus can be a much more pleasant way to get around town. Or there are bikes, river buses and overland trains that all help keep our city moving.

Related: How to save on London public transportation

23. Do get yourself an Oyster card.

Whichever public transport you are taking, an Oyster card will help you get the cheapest fares. (Read more about them here.) Seriously, it can cut the cost of a ride significantly.

24. Don’t ride public transport at peak hours, if possible.

That’s before 9:30 a.m. and from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in the evening. It’s when buses and trains are at their busiest and locals are at their grumpiest. It’s definitely time better spent walking (or in a café or bar!), if possible.

25. Don’t rely on the Tube after midnight.

Night transport in London is completely different to the day, so plan ahead if you’re going to be out late. There’s more detail in our London nightlife guide.

Your tips?

Have a do or don’t for visiting London? Share with us in our comments section below.

The post London: Follow these 25 tips for a much better trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

There are two cross-cutting factors at play. Let’s start with the good news for visitors. The pound is historically pretty weak at the moment, which means that, at the moment at least, day to day costs in the city are roughly comparable to costs in big American cities and most western European cities of note.

The bad news is that inflation is worse in the U.K. than just about anywhere else right now, so prices — especially prices for food and other consumer goods that arrive from the European Economic Area — keep inching up.

10 budget tips for visiting London

It goes without saying that it pays to have some budget weapons in your arsenal. Here are 10 ways to save on your trip to London.

1. Purchase a Visitor Oyster card

The Visitor Oyster card, a contactless smartcard that can only be purchased before you arrive in London, is a great way to save money. It determines the cheapest fare for any given public transportation journey and can be topped up along the way. It also caps fares at a maximum amount per day; for example, if you travel exclusively by bus, a £20 Visitor Oyster card will cap charges at £4.65 per day.

The Visitor Oyster card can be used on all Transport for London (TfL) services: The Tube, bus, tramlines, the Docklands Light Railway, Thames Clipper ferry services, and most National Rail train services within London as well as the Heathrow and Gatwick Express trains. Customers can obtain a refund for partially unused cards. The Visitor Oyster card is a cheapo traveler’s dream, but we’re not going to mislead: there is a good deal of fine print attached to its use.

Riding the bus is more fun and a lot cheaper than taking the Tube.

2. Take a bus

If you decided to go the journey by journey route, choose the bus over the Tube. Buses may be slower than the Tube, but they are cheaper. About 95% of London residents live within 400 meters of a bus line: buses really are London’s transit capillaries, penetrating — in particular south of the Thames — in a way that the Tube does not. Bus fares now include an entire hour of unlimited travel.

If you do decide to take the Tube instead, make sure to ride like a local with these tips.

3. Take advantage of the Boots lunch deal

Due to insane hikes in food prices mainstays like Pret and Benugo have become much less affordable than they were in years past. But the Boots meal deal is still a bargain.

Boots is a chemists (drugstore) chain found across the U.K. The Boots meal deal is now £4.99 for a main entrée, snack and drink in London — admittedly more than the £3.99 it was in London just a couple of years ago — but it remains a great deal.

4. Shop for food at supermarkets

If you want to find food for even cheaper, you can always assemble meals on the go from supermarkets. Chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi and Lidl are good for ad hoc meals; even rather posher Waitrose offers up bargains here and there.

5. Walk

London, mostly a very flat city, is an ideal place for walking. (How flat? Check your stair counter on your phone: it’s not difficult to walk 20,000 steps in a day in London and find that you’ve only climbed two or three flights!) Use Google Maps or another customizable map to estimate travel times — don’t forget that London is huge.

6. Camp in the city

Yes, remarkably, you can pitch a tent in London! Crystal Palace Club Campsite in south London and Abbey Wood Club Campsite in far southeast London are safe and secure places to camp. There are also tent sites just barely beyond the borders of Greater London in Aldenham Country Park in Elstree, Hertfordshire.

Regency Cafe, London. Photo: distillated

7. Dine locally

Eat at local cafes and canteens to get the most bang for your buck. Most inexpensive restaurants are outside of central London, though even in the center, there are bargains to be had. For example, at Regency Café (17-19 Regency Street SW1P 4BY), the weekly curry is £6.20, the breakfast set is £5.50 and a veggie burger is £2.60.

8. Explore free museums

The best-known London museums are mostly free. Yes, you read that correctly. Permanent collections are always free at the Design Museum, the Museum of London, the National Gallery, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Tate Modern and the Victoria & Albert, among other museums. The London Transport Museum is free to everyone under 17.

Just remember that some museums may require you to reserve time slots before you visit, even if tickets are free. Check the museum website before visiting to avoid being turned away at the door.

9. Score free and discounted theatre tickets

How to do theatre on a budget? I asked my friend Derek Craig, an avid theatre-goer, to weigh in. He suggested Seat Fillers, which offers free tickets — or tickets for the cost of booking fees only — to everyone. Another route to free (or hugely discounted) theatre tickets is The Audience Club.

10. Book budget hotels in London

Use EuroCheapo to book inexpensive hotels in London, from our favorite cheap hotels in central London to the best hostels around the city. (Did you think we weren’t going to sound our own horn?)

Ready to book your trip? Search for thousands of hotels in London.

The post 10 budget tips for visiting London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

These oh-so-easy to make errors can add up over the course of a trip and make a serious impact on your wallet — not to mention your enjoyment. To make the most of London like a true Cheapo, be sure to avoid these 10 costly mistakes:

1. Not getting an Oyster card

Just getting around town is expensive in London. And, do you know what’s really cruel? It tends to cost tourists more. That’s because Londoners who regularly take the Tube use Oyster cards. These are like travel credit cards, and they charge a cheaper rate for tickets than just buying them as you go. Sometimes an equivalent journey without an Oyster card can be more than double the price!

Oyster cards are easy to get hold of, you’ll just need to pay a small deposit (which is refundable). Find out more about them here.

2. Taking the Tube for every trip

And while we’re on the subject of travel, don’t think you have to travel everywhere on the London Underground Tube network. It’s easy to get between most central London attractions on foot (not to mention a lot more interesting).

If that’s not an option, London buses are considerably less expensive than the Tube and just as user friendly (the name of the stops are always announced and come up on a screen). They’re better for those traveling with wheelchairs and strollers, too. (Here’s a list of 5 bus routes every tourist should know.)

The Tower of London might be an icon, but it also costs £24.50. However, if you do go, make sure to book ahead. Photo: Craig Nelson

3. Trying to do too much

London is huge! And there’s so much to see. You’ll never see it all in one trip, so don’t make the mistake of trying to cram it all in. Rushing from one expensive attraction to another is a sure-fire way to lose money and lose out on some of the city’s fun.

Plan the essentials and leave the rest to chance. Sunny day? Have a wander around one of the city’s great parks, maybe, or check out a market. Rainy day? Pop into a free museum. London is better when you don’t try and keep up with the city’s frantic pace.

4. Not booking ahead for the big attractions

Having said that, for the really big attractions that you know you don’t want to miss out on, it’s always best (and often cheaper!) to book ahead. Many, including the Tower of London, Madame Tussaud’s, the London Eye and London Zoo, are all cheaper when you book online ahead of your visit.

Related: Top budget hotels in London

Celtic Hotel offers an optimal Bloomsbury location with low rates and free breakfast. Photo: Craig Nelson

5. Staying in a hotel way outside the center

We’ve all been there: deciding to go for accommodation that’s slightly cheaper but not so well located. Honestly, in London that’s a false economy. Staying more centrally doesn’t only save you travel time, it means that you can most likely walk, or at least bus it, to the central locations.

For budget friendly, centrally located accommodations, check out our favorite hotels in the Bloomsbury neighborhood, near Victoria Station, or Bayswater, for starters.

Search London hotels now

Know your travel dates? Find hotels for your budget now through our reservation partner, Booking.com

6. Tipping too much

Britain is not a nation of tippers and applying some of British tipping habits will really help your wallet.

• Eating out? Look at the check to see if a service charge has already been added. If not, a tip of around 10% is normal (and that’s only if you have been happy with the service).

• Getting a taxi? Round it up to the nearest pound.

• In a bar? It’s quite rare to tip, although you may offer to buy the bartender a drink.

Of course if you want to reward exceptional service with a more generous tip, it will always be appreciated. However, in the vast majority of cases, tipping is really seen as a bonus.

Victoria & Albert Museum is not only the world’s biggest destination for design and decorative arts. It’s also free! Photo: mk30

7. Not making the most of the free attractions

Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London may leave you feeling culturally enriched – they’ll also leave you considerably poorer. But famous doesn’t always have to mean pricey.

Many of London’s popular museums are free and it’s definitely worth making the most of them, whether it’s hanging out with the Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum, or marveling at the contemporary art and architecture at Tate Modern. Take a look at the list of 20 free museums here.

8. Being ripped off for food

Microwaved meals and soggy pasta is all-too-often dished up to unsuspecting tourists. Finding well prepared, decently priced food in many of London’s tourist areas can be a huge challenge.

If available options look suspect, head to one of London’s better chains. The following all offer tasty food for around £10-15: Wagamama (noodles), Wahaca (Mexican), Franco Manca (pizza), and Byron Burger (as the name suggests, burgers).

Markets are also a good option for foodies (especially for the free samples). Check out this list of our favorite food markets. As well as Borough and Maltby Street, check out many of the street markets such as KERB, a regular near King’s Cross.

Don’t overlook supermarkets for picking up snacks or even all the fixings for a cheap dinner. Tesco Express is a popular choice. Photo: Ewan Munro

9. Not using the supermarkets

Eating out in London all the time gets expensive quickly, but eating in is relatively cheap. Even if you’re staying in a hotel, it’s always worth popping into a supermarket for a lunch or a snack (check out our guide to supermarkets here). They’ll always have a good range of food to go, at a great price.

10. Overlooking discounts

Having an International Student Identity Card can make a huge difference to your stay and can offer discounts of between 20% to 50% on entrance tickets. If you’re not a student but still under 31, an International Youth Travel Card offers similar reductions. Similarly, seniors should ask about discounted admission to most big attractions and museums.

Your tips?

Have a tip to add to our list of mistakes to avoid when visiting London? Share with us in the comments section below!

The post Visiting London? Avoid these 10 costly mistakes appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While finding a welcoming (and clean!)  hostel can be a time-consuming challenge, you can rest easy, because we’ve gathered some of the top hostels in London in the center of the city. All of our picks are clean and have excellent communal areas for making new friends, cooking dinner and hanging out after a day of sightseeing.

Not interested in the hostel scene? No worries! Check out our full list of budget hotels in London to find an inexpensive hotel that fits your needs.

Related:
• Affordable hotels near London’s most popular attractions
• 5 Central London hotels for under £100 per night
• 10 Ways to save on dining in London

Best London Hostels: Cheap sleeps in Central London

YHA London St Pancras

79-81 Euston Road
Neighborhood: King’s Cross
Single bed starting at $19

Simplicity keeps the prices low at YHA London St. Pancras, but the communal areas more than make up for the basic, but clean, rooms. The lounge space and bar both boast floor-to-ceiling windows and comfy red sofas, and you can count on chill music drifting through these spaces. Make friends over breakfast or drinks, or buddy up with your temporary roommates. Read the full review here.

YHA Oxford Street

14 Noel Street
Neighborhood: Soho
Single bed starting at $21

Vibrant public areas, including the hot pink guest kitchen, make the shared spaces fun and inviting for guests at YHA Oxford Street. Crash on the yellow bean bag chairs to watch TV with other guests, or participate in hostel-directed activities like pub crawls and walking city tours.

You can enjoy the friendly atmosphere by staying in a dorm, or you can take advantage of the inviting communal areas while retreating in the available private rooms. Read more about YHA Oxford Street here.

A private room at YMCA Indian Hostel. Photo: EuroCheapo

YMCA Indian Student Hostel

41 Fitzroy Square
Neighborhood: Bloomsbury
Single bed starting at $36

Relive your college days at this hostel, where both dorm beds and private rooms are available, and cafeteria-style breakfasts and dinners are included in the rate. While rooms may be basic and uninspiring, you can be sure of your chances to meet friends in the dining hall, TV lounge, study rooms, library or the recreational room. Start up a game of table tennis or chess with a fellow guest.

Read the full review of the hostel here.

The lobby and check-in desk at Generator Hostel London. Photo: Booking.com

Generator Hostel London

37 Tavistock Place
Neighborhood: Bloomsbury
Single bed starting at $19

While both private and dorm-style rooms are small, the Generator is a great crash pad for those who live for the night. During the day, a bright café and dining area offer food and drink as well as a space to mingle.

At night, the hostel becomes the center of social activity when its nightclub opens and the cheap drinks start flowing. The club is complete with neon lights and a DJ booth. The club has a fun-filled calendar, featuring quiz nights, blind dates, karaoke and themed parties.

If you’re a night owl and a Cheapo, book a bed (or private room) at the Generator.

The communal kitchen at Clink 261. Photo: Booking.com

Clink 261

261-265 Grays Inn Road
Neighborhood: King’s Cross
Single bed starting at $19

Red curtains brighten up the shared rooms, which are otherwise pale blue with metal bunk beds. Although basic, rooms are clean and include free bed linens. What really brings appeal to Clink 261, though, is the public spaces, including a stainless steel guest kitchen, a unique basement lounge and an inviting upstairs lounge.

Make friends playing video or board games downstairs in the basement, or admire the murals with other guests upstairs. Read the full review of Clink 261 here.

More ways to save in London

Looking to explore London on a budget? After booking your hostel or budget hotel, read all of our budget tips for visiting London.

The post Best Hostels in London: Beds from $19 per night appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

So once you book your London hotel, you’ll be ready to start exploring. Here’s the EuroCheapo guide to the main supermarket brands that are fighting it out for your pounds.

Tesco

Website

Tesco is the UK’s biggest chain of supermarkets — it’s estimated that £1 from every £10 spent in Britain is spent in a Tesco store. They carry a wide range of brands but seek out the ‘Tesco Everyday Value’ range for the cheapest prices (the biscuits especially win praise from customers).  While some Tesco stores are huge, selling everything from tomato ketchup to TVs, in central London, you’re more likely to encounter a smaller Tesco Express store. Catering to workers, these stores are open late (usually until 11 pm) but carry a much smaller range of stock. Prices will also be slightly higher.

Related: Best outdoor food markets in London

Sainsbury’s

Website

After Tesco, Sainsbury’s is the UK second biggest chain of supermarkets. The two chains are very similar, although Sainsbury’s has a slightly better reputation for quality. The stores often include fish and cheese counters so you can pay for exactly what you want to buy, rather than having to buy off the shelves. Sainsbury’s Locals are smaller stores, an equivalent to the Tesco Express, while ‘Sainsbury’s Basics’ is its economy range. It’s also worth checking out the ‘by Sainsbury’s range’, usually cheaper than branded products.

The German chain Aldi has been opening more London branches in recent years. Photo: Alan Stanton

Aldi

Website

Just as the German chain Aldi is spreading across the US, it’s growing in popularity in the UK too, thanks to its wallet-friendly pricing. In fact, it was voted the country’s favorite supermarket earlier this year. You’ll tend to find Aldis outside of central London so — if you do spot one — we recommended stocking up on its excellent value own branded goods. Look out for Lidl too, another German brand proving to be a hit with British shoppers.

Asda

Website

Asda is now the UK division of Walmart and stocks a wide range of products at reliably low prices. As with Aldi, most of the larger stores are found away from the center of London. It’s worth tracking down an Asda if you’re looking to stock up your trolley with anything other than groceries: its George range is known for selling reasonably priced, fashionable clothing and homewares.

Marks & Spencer

Website

As you’d expect from a grocery store favored by David and Victoria Beckham, shoppers at Marks & Spencer (commonly known as “M&S” or “Marks and Sparks”) like to think of themselves as being a bit posh. Marks & Spencer is actually more of a department store, selling clothes as well as groceries, but — especially at railway stations — you find ‘Marks & Spencer Simply Food’ shops that (as the name suggests) specialize in food. M&S is a pricey option for a full supermarket shop, but look out for ‘Dine In” specials offers for a cheaper evening meal option. Their readymade sandwiches and salads are equal in taste and sometimes beat on price, Eurocheapo favorite Pret a Manger.

Related: 10 ways to save on dining in London

The most upscale supermarket chain in London, Waitrose also offers free daily coffee for those who sign up for a loyalty card. Photo: Paul M

Waitrose

Website

Waitrose (and its smaller version, ‘Little Waitrose’) is the UK’s most upmarket supermarket chain, the kind of place that prides itself on its range of organic olive oils and artisan chutneys (there’s even a Facebook page devoted to some of its snobbier customers). Needless to say, I’d shop there all the time if I could afford it. If Waitrose is your only supermarket option, seek out their Essentials range for more affordable basics. Staying in the UK for a longer period? Apply for a Waitrose card — amongst many other deals, it entitles you to a free daily coffee from the store.

The post Budget food shopping in London: A guide to the city’s supermarkets appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

To help you start navigating your restaurant options in London, take note of the tips below. They should help you save a few pounds of your budget — and point you toward some great new eats.

Related: Top budget hotels in London

10 London dining tips

1. Avoid tourist traps

No one wants to feel like a ripped-off tourist, paying over the odds for an unsatisfactory meal. The first rule here is to avoid going out for meals in tourist hotspots. Look at where Londoners might go to eat — Soho or Shoreditch, for example.

While those areas aren’t necessarily going to be cheap, they’re likely to offer a far better dining experience than, say, one of the high volume eateries on the corner of Leicester Square. Think ahead, as a little planning can save you from a disappointing meal.

2. Do some research

There are loads of budget-friendly options all over London, but another benefit of planning is knowing what you are looking for! Time Out London’s Cheap Eats has loads of recommendations, and you can search by area, or ask at your hotel, and they should be happy to point you in the direction of a popular local.

Here are 10 cheapo restaurant picks, situated all around the city.

3. Don’t skimp on your hotel breakfast

Most London hotels will include breakfast in their room price. (Here are our favorite cheap hotels in Londons.) Filling up on a full English (or even just some tea and toast) is a great way to ensure you aren’t ravenous — and splashing out on snacks — by lunchtime!

We love the breakfast at likes of the Celtic Hotel, Luna & Simone Hotel, and Arosfa Hotel. A substantial breakfast means you can pick up light lunch at a supermarket, one of the reasonably priced sandwich chains such as Pret a Manger, or at a market. Speaking of which…

4. Think vendors, food carts and takeaway

Don’t just associate good eating with starched linen tablecloths. Kerb brings street food vendors to locations all around London.

And don’t forget the joy of a simple takeaway. Enjoying chips doused in salt and vinegar eaten out of their wrapper on a cold evening is a British tradition up there with visiting Buckingham Palace!

5. Don’t forget the pub!

A great visit to a pub can be as much about eating as drinking, as many serve reasonably priced food. It’s fun to stop in a local pub for some lunch and a pint. The tourist trap rule also applies to picking a pub (and —as a general rule of thumb — rule out any place boasting that they serve “London’s best fish and chips”).

They’re also a great place to sample that other British institution: the Sunday Roast. Here are our picks for our favorite pubs to enjoy a roast.

6. Splurge at lunch

If you do want to experience some of London’s more fashionable restaurants, it’s worth heading out at lunchtime when prices can be much cheaper. Look for set lunch deals.

Camden Lock Market has excellent food options for less than £ 10. Photo: Karsten Seiferlin

7. Eat at local markets

London boasts several bountiful markets throughout the city. Borough Market might be one of the most famous, but along with fresh produce, they also have several food vendors to fill you up for cheap. You’ll also find plenty of affordable dining spots at Camden Locks Market, which is open daily.

Here are a few more outdoor markets in London that offer several affordable food options.

Don’t worry about leaving more than a few pounds for your dinner or drinks. Photo: Ed Ivanushkin

8. Don’t go over the top with your tips

Before you tip your server, double-check your check. Often there will be a service charge included automatically, which means that you don’t need to leave any more money on the table. Serving staff are also less reliant on their tips to make up their wage than in the States, so as a general rule, Brits are less generous with tipping than their North American counterparts.

In general, our typical tip is closer to 10% than 15% — higher tips are really a reward for exceptional service. Check out our guide to tipping in London for more information.

9. Order tap water and BYOB

It’s completely fine (and safe) to ask for tap water with your meal, rather than expensive bottled water.

Another way to save on drinks is to look out for restaurants offering “Bring Your Own Bottle/Booze” or BYOB. For a couple of pounds, you’ll be able to bring in the wine or beer of your choice and avoid the high cost of a restaurant mark-up.

10. Save with websites and apps

With lots of money-off vouchers and discount cards online, both for chains and fancier eateries, why pay full price? Sign up for market and restaurant websites for deals, and use apps like Too Good to Go, Karma or Olio to rescue restaurant meals for cheap or Wowcher or DineClub for restaurant vouchers.

Your tips

How do you save when you eat out in London? Tell us in the comments below!

The post London Restaurants: 10 ways to save on dining appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

We’ve picked five super cheap hotels in central London from our list. All of them have high ratings, great locations, and most importantly, very low prices.

Interested in seeing more budget hotels in London? Check out our entire list of hotels and hostels in the city.

Related posts:
• 10 Tips for riding the Tube like a local
• 21 Ways to save on your trip to London
• When should you book a hotel to get the best rates

Top cheap hotels in central London

A triple room at Princess Hotel provides an excellent value for groups or families.

Princess Hotel

35-39 Argyle Street
Neighborhood: King’s Cross
Doubles starting at $104

Simple, pretty rooms are the standard at the Princess Hotel, a charming hotel part of the St. Pancras Hotel Group. The Princess Hotel has been providing comfortable rooms for budget travelers since 1976, and guests continue to come for the friendly service and budget-friendly rooms. Those hoping to save even more money can book a room with a shared bathroom.

Read more about the Princess Hotel here.

Hotel Meridiana is situated in an old-fashioned townhouse overlooking a park.

Hotel Meridiana

43-44 Argyle Square
Neighborhood: King’s Cross
Doubles starting at $78

Hotel Meridiana is a simple yet charming family-run hotel on a peaceful street near King’s Cross. Rooms are simple but sparkling clean, with coffee and tea facilities and a TV. Like many other budget hotels in London, you can save extra money by opting for a room with a shared bathroom. A full English breakfast is included in the room rate. Don’t forget to take in the park views while you’re here.

Read more about the Hotel Meridiana here.

An outdoor patio at Rushmore Hotel.

Rushmore Hotel

11 Trebovir Road
Neighborhood: Earls Court
Doubles starting at $107

With free breakfast, clean private bathrooms and a kind staff, the Rushmore Hotel offers a comfortable base for budget travelers. Each room in the hotel is unique, with different color and décor schemes (think sunshine or the sea). Repeat visitors are sure to be surprised, in a good way, with each stay at the Rushmore. Book at least two months in advance for the best rates.

Read our full review of this hotel here.

Rooms are basic but very comfortable at Alhambra Hotel.

Alhambra Hotel

17-19 Argyle Street
Neighborhood: King’s Cross
Doubles Starting at $108

A convenient location near King’s Cross and spotless rooms make the Alhambra Hotel a bit higher in price than the previously mentioned hotels, but it still remains a steal compared to other accommodations in the area. For Cheapos who really want to spare some extra pounds, guests can book a room with a shared bathroom. Even better? Free breakfast.

Read more about the hotel here.

The lobby at St Athans Hotel is a great place to check your email or read through your guidebook.

St Athans Hotel

20-24 Tavistock Place
Neighborhood: Bloomsbury
Doubles Starting at $96

If the price is more important than the perks, the one-star St Athans Hotel is a great choice for Cheapos. The same family has run the place since 1964, so the service is reliable and friendly. Rooms are very simple but also very clean with shared and private facilities available. Located about 10 minutes from the British Museum, the Russell Square tube stop is also just two blocks away.

Read more about St Athans Hotel here.

More budget hotels in London

Looking for more cheap hotel options in London? Check out our full list of hotels in our London budget hotel guide.

For more budget travel advice, check out our London blog for tips on everything from the best free museums to how to experience high culture on no budget.

The post London: The 5 best cheap hotels in central London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Hailing a London taxi can cost a small fortune and riding the night buses can take a long time to get you back to your hotel.

However, all that might change with the arrival of the Night Tube – a boon to party people and budget travelers who like to stay out late or are catching a late-night flight.

What is the Night Tube?

After announcing the new service in 2014, the Night Tube has finally arrived! It offers a 24-hour service on selected Underground lines on Fridays and Saturdays.

At the moment, the service is running on the Central Line (that runs west to east across London including stops in Notting Hill, Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Bank and Liverpool Street) and the Victoria Line (that crosses the city south to north, including Brixton, Victoria, Oxford Circus, Euston, King’s Cross, Highbury & Islington).

The service is due to start running on the Jubilee Line starting October 7, 2016 and will be extended to the Piccadilly and Northern lines later in the autumn.

Related: 10 Tips for riding the London Tube like a local

How much does it cost?

The service costs no more than a standard off-peak journey on the Underground, whether that’s a single ticket or an Oyster card fare. Day tickets are valid from the day of purchase until 4:30 am the following day — so if you buy your ticket at 10 am on a Saturday, it’ll still be valid come 4:15 am on Sunday morning (although you’ll personally probably be exhausted!).

How will it benefit the budget traveler?

The obvious benefits are convenience and cost. Rather than having to navigate the network of night buses or shell out for a taxi, this will open up most of central London.

Even the two lines offering the service at the moment are convenient for traveling, servicing some of the typical budget hotel areas including Warren Street, Victoria, and Holborn. Party areas such as Brixton and Shoreditch (using Liverpool Street station) are now much more easy to reach — and return from — in the early hours.

It will also be a huge help for travelers who have scored cheaper flights or trains into and out of London, with Victoria (for trains to and from Gatwick), Liverpool Street (trains to and from Stansted) and King’s Cross (for the Eurostar) all on the network. When the Piccadilly line becomes part of the Night Tube, Heathrow will also be accessible.

Related: The Cheapest and fastest options for getting to the airport in London

The post London’s Night Tube Opens! How does it work? appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

In previous articles, we’ve explained the etiquette of visiting a traditional pub, where to find a lovely (and affordable) Sunday roast, and how to save on London nightlife and culture, but where should you go for an authentic (and not too costly) pub experience?

Well, we’ve picked out 10 of our favorite London pubs below. They’re all located in central London, and are all highly recommended for providing a well deserved respite from the bustle of London streets. These are pubs that are popular with locals, given their histories, locations, specialties, and — of course — drink prices!

And if you need a place to stumble back to after a fun night out on the town, you can check out these centrally located budget hotels in London. After all, you can afford to grab an extra pint or two when you save on your accommodations!

Here are our top 10 favorite pubs in central London. The next round’s on us!

1. Lamb and Flag

33 Rose St, London WC2E 9EB
Tube: Covent Garden

The Lamb and Flag is ideally placed for escaping the throngs of Covent Garden. Slightly tucked away from the main streets, you’re more likely to be rubbing shoulders (it does often reach a rubbing shoulders level of busy) with a Londoner than with a fellow tourist.

The building has a great history — reflected in its appearance — having been on this site since 1772. Beloved of Charles Dickens, it once was called the “Bucket of Blood”, as it was known for bare-knuckle fighting. It’s much more welcoming now — so much that if you sign up to their mailing list, you can get yourself a free pint.

2. The George Inn

77 Borough High St, Southwark, London SE1 1NH
Tube: London Bridge

Another Dickens recommendation: this pub was actually mentioned in Little Dorritt. It’s an amazing building — a rare surviving example of a galleried inn and the exterior dates all the way back to 1677. Its uniqueness makes it one of the most expensive options on this list, so we recommend savoring a pint in their courtyard on a sunny day, and then moving on. We named the George Inn one as our favorite traditional London pubs for historic drinking.

Related: Five classic London pubs worth a visit

Princess Louise pub. Photo: KotomiCreations

3. Princess Louise

208 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EP, UK
Tube: Holborn

The Princess Louise is an all-round winner. First of all, it’s run by the Samuel Smith brewery, who serve up some of the cheapest pints in London. Then there is its astounding Victorian interior. Entering is like stepping back in time — it’s divided into small compartments, each seating just a handful of people, arranged around a central bar. Mirrored, frosted glass and mosaics create a visual feast that’s unlike most pubs or bars you’ll ever visit.

4. Bradley’s Spanish Bar

42-44 Hanway St, London, W1T 1UT, United Kingdom
Tube: Tottenham Court Road

Despite the name, this is less bar and more pub. The name does have some truth in it, however, as it serves a good line of very well priced Spanish beers and wine. This unpretentious, fun but battered around the edges venue spans several levels. The star attraction is the much-loved vinyl jukebox.

5. The Harp

47 Chandos Pl, London WC2N 4HS, United Kingdom
Tube: Charing Cross/Leicester Square

Another oasis of civility in the middle of one of the busiest area of town. Behind this pub’s charming stained glass windows, you’ll discover plenty of choice for ale aficionados. The two narrow floors make it a tight squeeze, but drinkers spill out onto the alley outside in the summer. As with the Lamb and Flag, it’s operated by Fuller’s, so sign up on the site for your free drink.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. Photo: George Rex

6. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

145 Fleet St, London EC4A 2BU, UK
Tube: St Pauls

You’ll find the entrance to popular Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese in the narrow alleyway coming off Fleet Street. That sets the tone for the pub — rebuilt after Great Fire of London, it’s a maze of rooms and passageways. It’s undeniably atmospheric, with its dark corners and open fires, and past famous drinkers are said to have included Mark Twain, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and, yes, like many other pubs, Charles Dickens. Like the Princess Louise, it’s a Samuel Smith’s pub, so it offers some of the most reasonably priced drinks in central London.

7. Scootercaffe

132 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7AE, United Kingdom
Tube: Waterloo

The Scootercaffe is definitely the least pub-like of all the drinking establishments we’re recommending, but it’s a charming cafe-bar of the type that’s surprisingly hard to find in London. Their coffee machine keeps going into the night, but there’s bottled beers and wine to be enjoyed here, too. Spread over two higgledy-piggledy floors, with vintage furniture and sometimes even a cat, it’s a dark and cozy place to enjoy a few drinks.

8. The Lyric

37 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7LU
Tube: Piccadilly Circus

Looking for a small, but a perfectly formed Victorian pub in a busy part of town? The Lyric is a great example of a good British boozer — there’s a great selection of craft beer, an open fire, reasonably priced tasty grub, and the likelihood of a football game showing on the screens.

9. The Lexington

96-98 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9JB
Tube: King’s Cross/Angel

The Lexington’s drink selection differs from the traditional British boozer in that it favors U.S. bottled beers and whiskies. That’s in keeping with its rock n’ roll spirit — the Lexington is one of the city’s best places to see up and coming bands. In fact, it’s a brilliant place to spend an afternoon that tips into an evening, as there’s plenty to entertain here — from music quizzes to club nights. It pulls off feeling just decadent enough while still being welcoming.

Enjoying a couple of pints at Holborn Whippet. Photo: Tom Anderson

10. The Holborn Whippet

25-29 Sicilian Ave, London WC1A 2QH
Tube: Holborn

London has some great traditional pubs, but the Holborn Whippet goes to show that good drinking doesn’t have to involve dark rooms with brass fittings. This is a tiny place, close to the British Museum and, while it’s stripped back in decor, it definitely doesn’t stint on the drink. They pride themselves on the different craft beers — there’s some good food, too — and it’s a favorite with local workers. In better weather, you’ll see them spilling out of the pub onto Sicilian Avenue outside where there’s not that many better ways to spend a sunny London evening.

Cheers!

The post Our 10 favorite local pubs and bars in central London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

This guide will help you navigate the huge choice and save a little bit of cash in the process – how much you save, of course, depends on your own restraint!

From our London Guide:

• All London articles
• All London shopping articles
• Top London budget hotels

High Street Shopping

You don’t have to look far to find the major chain shops. If you are on a major shopping mission, Oxford Street (and Regent Street, which bisects it) has the flagship stores of all the major shops.

It gets busy, however, really busy, so consider Covent Garden or the King’s Road as good, slightly less stressful alternatives. Aim for Tottenham Court Road if you’re looking for housewares, while the two Westfield malls – one in Shepherd’s Bush and one in Stratford – also offer all the major brands under their roof.

When can you find sales?

There are always large discounts to be found in the January sales, which actually start just after (or sometimes slightly before) Christmas, and the mid-summer sales. In reality, discounting is becoming increasingly common throughout the year, so keep your eyes open for signs in the shops.

Which shops?

As well as the international names you’ll find in the US and throughout Europe, more wallet-friendly British brands include Primark, New Look, Topshop, Miss Selfridge, and Dorothy Perkins.

Department stores

London also has some world famous department stores, such as Harrods, Liberty’s, and Selfridges. While gorgeous for window-shopping, they are likely to be beyond the reach of many budget travelers (although the ground floor clothing section at Selfridges stocks some accessible brands).

House of Fraser, Debenhams, and John Lewis are more affordable department store options worth checking out.

Secondhand and Vintage Shopping

Some of the best shopping bargains can be found in the city’s markets. (Read our related article: A guide to shopping at London’s best flea markets )

There are secondhand and vintage shops to be found all over the city, although you’ll find clusters of them around Brick Lane and Camden.

• Secondhand/vintage clothes: The Beyond Retro chain (in Dalston, Shoreditch and Soho) offers an affordable rummaging ground.
• Used books: Charing Cross Road is the famous destination for secondhand books, while the most picturesque hunting ground is the books stalls that set up underneath Waterloo Bridge on the South Bank.
• Charity shops: Proper bargain hunters shouldn’t overlook the charity shops: Shelter, Cancer Research, Oxfam, and the Red Cross are some of the most well known. Seasoned charity shoppers head to the wealthier areas of the city, such as Chelsea or Marylebone to discover a better quality stock.

Independent shops

Generally speaking, you’ll find independent shops in many of the same neighborhoods where you’ll find vintage shops. Portobello Market has been the starting point for many new designers, as has Spitalfields.

The Sunday (Up)market, at the Truman Brewery, is also well worth a look and the surrounding streets are worth exploring for independent stores. While Carnaby Street is perhaps not the hotbed of cool it was in its 1960s heyday, it – and the streets that come off it – offers some more unusual shops pitched at the youth market.

Designer Discounts

You’ll find TJ Maxx in Britain too, although slightly confusingly, here it’s called “TK Maxx“. Charing Cross Road and Kensington High Street have two of its most central branches.

More dedicated designer hunters may want to make the trek to Chatham Place in Hackney to find factory stores of Burberry and Aquascutum. Also, keep an eye out in Time Out magazine (it’s given out for free each Tuesday) for listings of other designer sample sales.

The main designer discounts, however, can be found in the extremely popular Bicester Village – a designer outlet shopping center that’s a day trip from London. You can take the train from Marylebone station or a direct bus.

Don’t forget! Tax free shopping

As a visitor you may be entitled to claim back your tax on the goods that you purchase, but you’ll need to pick up a form from participating shops. Find out more on the Visit London website.

Your London shopping tips

Got any great London shopping tips? Leave a comment below!

The post Budget guide to shopping in London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.