London in 5 Days and on a Budget

London, the vibrant and historic capital of the United Kingdom, is a dream destination for many travelers. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower Bridge to the cultural richness of its museums and theaters, London has something for everyone. However, the city’s reputation for being expensive might make budget-conscious travelers hesitate. Fear not! With some careful planning and insider tips, you can experience the best of London in 5 days and on a budget!

A London Adventure: 5 Days and on a Budget

Day 1: Discovering Central London’s Iconic Landmarks

Start your London adventure by exploring the heart of the city. Begin your day with a stroll along the South Bank of the Thames River. Take in the breathtaking views of landmarks such as the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Best of all, this is a budget-friendly activity that allows you to soak in the city’s atmosphere.  We stayed at the Savoy, which is a Fairmont Hotel.  It was along the Thames River and close to the theater district!  The location was superb.

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is not really a circus but a popular tourist destination in London.  Sit by the famous statue of Eros (a popular meeting point), or take some photos in front of the iconic advertising screens. We took a walking tour of the area and it was one of my daughter’s favorite.

Chelsea Market and Tower Bridge

For lunch, head to Chelsea Farmers Market, a food lover’s paradise. You can find a variety of delicious and affordable food options. Although it technically is not a “farmer’s market” it has fabulous restaurants and boutique stores. The Ivy Market is where we ate breakfast and it was outstanding!  Afterward, walk or ride the bus to cross the Tower Bridge (often called London Bridge) and explore the Tower of London surroundings. While the entrance to the Tower itself may be a bit pricey, and crowded, the exterior and the nearby Tower Bridge offer fantastic photo opportunities.  This is what my daughter and I did.  We took the Big Bus to cross the bridge then just took pictures!  We are not huge fans of taking tours.  Our interests lie in the architecture and seeing all the iconic points of interest.

Eye of London Experience

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Eye of London.  This was a great treat and not expensive.  We definitely had a bird’s eye view of London from the top and with the fast track tickets, we didn’t wait in line for long. Afterwards, consider grabbing dinner at a local pub for an authentic British experience without breaking the bank.

Day 2: Parks, Relaxation and Afternoon Tea

London is not just about museums; it’s also a city with beautiful parks and delightful traditions like afternoon tea. Spend your second day exploring the greener side of London.

Start your day with a stroll through Hyde Park. Enjoy the serene surroundings, lush greenery, and perhaps even rent a rowboat on the Serpentine Lake for a tranquil experience.

Then head to Kensington Gardens, an extension of Hyde Park. Marvel at the stunning Kensington Palace and its well-manicured gardens. Take your time to wander around and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch and Afternoon Teas

For a budget-friendly lunch, explore the surrounding areas of Kensington. You’ll find charming cafes and local eateries that offer delicious meals without breaking the bank. Or indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience. There are numerous options in London, ranging from luxurious hotels to quaint tea rooms. Consider places like The Ritz or a hidden gem in a local neighborhood. It’s a chance to relax, savor delicious treats, and embrace a quintessential British tradition.  We went to two afternoon teas while in London.  One was at the Savoy Hotel and the other was at Milestone Hotel.  Both were AMAZING and well worth the cost!

Afterwards take a leisurely stroll along the Princess Diana Memorial Walk. This walk offers a blend of nature and history, passing by landmarks associated with the beloved princess.

As the afternoon comes to a close, you’ve experienced the beauty of London’s parks, enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea, and soaked in the city’s atmosphere without stepping into a museum. Day 2 provides a perfect balance of relaxation and cultural indulgence.

Day 3: Royal Parks, Historical Insights, and Trendy Neighborhoods

Embark on a diverse journey through London on your third day, blending royal parks, historical significance, and trendy neighborhoods.

St James’s Park: Start your day with a leisurely stroll through St James’s Park. This picturesque green oasis, situated in the heart of London, offers serene views of the lake and the iconic Buckingham Palace. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility before diving into the day’s adventures.

Churchill’s War Rooms: Immerse yourself in history at Churchill’s War Rooms. Located beneath the streets of Westminster, this museum preserves the underground command center used by Winston Churchill during World War II. While there’s an admission fee, the historical insights are well worth it.

Marylebone High Street: Conclude your day by exploring the charming Marylebone High Street. This area is known for its boutique shops, independent cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll, grab a coffee, and soak in the local vibe.  Be sure to check out Daunt Books.  It is a gem with an amazing vibe and very cool architecture!

Day 3 offers a perfect blend of London’s rich history, royal connections, and contemporary charm.

Day 4:  London’s Quirky Charm of Palaces and Horses

Dedicate your fourth day to London’s royal side. Start with a visit to Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a free event and a quintessential London experience.

In the afternoon, explore the exterior of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. While entrance fees may apply, the architecture alone is worth the visit. Cross the Westminster Bridge for a stunning view of the city-scape and the London Eye.

Day 5: A Lovely Farewell

On your final day, take the Big Bus to some of the best shopping areas. Begin your morning at  St. Christopher’s Place. Browse through antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky collectibles and flagship stores.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the Green Park, which is right across the street from Buckingham Palace! If the weather is favorable, consider having a picnic in the park. It’s a serene way to cap off your London adventure.

As you bid farewell to this dynamic city, reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had without straining your budget. London, with its diversity and charm, has shown you that you can savor the best it has to offer without breaking the bank.

Tips for Budget Travel in London:

1. Public Transportation: Opt for an Oyster card to save on public transportation costs. London’s extensive public transport system is an efficient and budget-friendly way to get around.  We choose the Big Bus Tours while staying in London.  It was an easy on and off process and it went around the entire city.  There wasn’t anything we could not get to while taking the bus! And the weather was nice and sitting in the open air second level, was wonderful.
2. Free Events: Check for free events, performances, and exhibitions happening during your stay. London’s cultural scene is rich, and many events are open to the public at no cost.
3. Local Markets: Embrace London’s markets for affordable shopping and dining. From street food to unique souvenirs, markets provide a budget-friendly way to experience the city’s diversity.
4. Picnics: Instead of dining out for every meal, indulge in a few picnics. London’s parks offer scenic spots for enjoying budget-friendly meals and snacks.
5. Hotels: I have to be honest, you will break the bank staying at the Savoy.  But it was absolutely beautiful and central to everything we wanted to do.  So for me, it was worth it! Next time though, I will stay at the Milestone Hotel where we had tea.  It was near Kensington Palace and not in the center of the hustle and bustle of London!

Conclusion

By following these tips and crafting an itinerary that balances iconic attractions with off-the-beaten-path discoveries, you can make the most of your 5 days in London and stay on Budget! Enjoy your adventure in this captivating city!

 

 

Products I LOVE!

I bought the book Pretty Little London while on our trip.  I wish I had it sooner!  It gives great advice on where to go for great pictures! Purchase HERE from AMAZON!

 

More importantly, thank you for spending your time here at Colorado Kelly!  I love having you here and appreciate everyone that comes to visit and look forward to having you come back soon!

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