London is a dream destination—iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and endless things to do. But let’s be honest: it’s also one of the most expensive cities in the world. The good news? You can visit London on a budget if you time your trip right.
In this detailed guide, I’ll break down:
✔ The absolute cheapest months to visit London
✔ How to save on flights, hotels, and attractions
✔ Free and budget-friendly things to do
✔ Insider tips to stretch your money further
Whether you’re a backpacker, a student, or just looking for a great deal, this guide will help you explore best time to visit London without breaking the bank.
Also Read: How to Get Paid to Travel the World in 2025
Why Timing is Everything for Budget Travel in London
London’s prices change dramatically depending on the season. Tourist crowds drive up costs for flights, hotels, and even restaurants. But if you visit during off-peak times, you can save hundreds of pounds.
Key Factors That Affect Prices:
- Tourist Seasons (Summer & Christmas = most expensive)
- Major Events (Wimbledon, New Year’s, etc.)
- Weather (Fewer tourists in colder months = better deals)
- School Holidays (Prices spike when families travel)
Smart Tip: Use Google Trends to see when people search for London trips—fewer searches usually mean lower prices!
The Absolute Cheapest Months to Visit London (Save 50% or More!)
1. January – Early February (Post-New Year Slump)
- Why it’s the cheapest?
- Everyone’s recovering from holiday spending.
- Cold weather keeps tourists away.
- Average temperatures: 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F)
- What to expect:
- Hotels 40-50% cheaper than in summer.
- Flights from Europe for under £50 (check Ryanair).
- No crowds at major attractions.
- Best for:
- Museum lovers (most are free!).
- Theatre fans (discount tickets on TodayTix).
Also Read: London Travel Secrets: 8 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Visitors
2. November (Between Halloween & Christmas Rush)
- Why it’s a hidden gem?
- Too cold for summer tourists, but Christmas markets haven’t started.
- Average temperatures: 5°C – 10°C (41°F – 50°F)
- What to expect:
- Budget hotels from £40/night (search Hostelworld).
- Cheap flights from the US & Europe.
- Fewer tourists at major sights.
- Best for:
- Exploring historic pubs without crowds.
- Seeing autumn foliage in parks like Hampstead Heath.
3. March – Early April (Spring Before Easter Crowds)
- Why it’s budget-friendly?
- Weather improves, but peak season hasn’t started.
- Average temperatures: 8°C – 12°C (46°F – 54°F)
- What to expect:
- Flights still affordable (use Skyscanner).
- Hostels & budget hotels widely available.
- Cherry blossoms in parks like Kew Gardens.
- Best for:
- Walking tours (many free or pay-what-you-can).
- Visiting markets like Camden before summer crowds.
Also Read: Where to Travel in 2025 Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Times to AVOID (Unless You Love Crowds & High Prices!)
❌ June – August (Peak Tourist Season)
- Why it’s expensive?
- Summer holidays = families & tourists everywhere.
- Hotels double or triple in price.
- What to expect:
- Long queues at the Tower of London, London Eye.
- Overbooked hostels & flights.
- Only visit in summer if:
- You must see Wimbledon or Buckingham Palace in sunshine.
❌ December (Christmas Madness)
- Why it’s pricey?
- Christmas markets & lights attract crowds.
- Hotels charge holiday premiums.
- What to expect:
- Winter Wonderland = expensive & packed.
- Restaurants book up weeks in advance.
- Only visit in December if:
- You love Christmas and don’t mind splurging.
Also Read: Feeling Bored? Maybe You Need an “Adult Field Trip”
How to Find the CHEAPEST Flights to London
Best Websites for Flight Deals:
- Skyscanner – Compares all airlines.
- Google Flights – Tracks price drops.
- Kiwi.com – Finds hidden budget routes.
Pro Tips for Saving on Airfare:
✔ Book 2-3 months early (last-minute = expensive).
✔ Fly mid-week (Tuesdays & Wednesdays = cheapest).
✔ Use budget airlines (EasyJet, Ryanair for Europe).
✔ Set price alerts (Google Flights & Skyscanner).
Where to Stay in London for Less Than £50/Night
Best Budget Hotels & Hostels:
- YHA London Hostels – From £20/night (Book here).
- Travelodge – Reliable budget stays from £50/night (Check deals).
- Generator Hostel – Social & cheap in central London (See prices).
Free & Ultra-Cheap Accommodation Hacks:
- Couchsurfing – Stay for free with locals (Sign up).
- House-sitting – Free stays in exchange for pet care (Try TrustedHousesitters).
Free & Cheap Things to Do in London
Top Free Attractions:
✅ British Museum – Ancient artifacts (Plan your visit).
✅ National Gallery – Famous paintings (More info).
✅ Hyde Park – Walk, bike, or picnic.
Discount Passes for Tourists:
- London Pass – Save on 80+ attractions (Check prices).
- 2-for-1 Deals – Discounts with a train ticket (See offers).
Eating Cheap in London (Meals Under £5!)
Budget Meal Spots:
- Pret A Manger – £3 sandwiches.
- Tesco Meal Deal – £3.50 for sandwich + snack + drink.
- Borough Market – Cheap street food (Visit site).
Happy Hour & Discount Apps:
- Wetherspoon Pubs – Cheap beer & meals.
- Too Good To Go – Discounted restaurant leftovers (Download app).
Final Money-Saving Tips for London
- Get an Oyster Card – Cheaper than single tickets (Buy here).
- Walk or take buses – Avoid expensive Tube rides.
- Visit free museums – Over 20+ top museums are free!
Conclusion: When Should Budget Travelers Visit London?
Best for savings: January–February or November.
Best for mild weather: March–April.
Avoid: June–August & December (unless you love crowds).
With these tips, you can enjoy London without overspending. Happy travels!
Want more UK budget tips? Read my guide on How to Travel the UK for Less Than £50 a Day (coming soon!).
FAQ: Budget Traveler’s Guide to Visiting London for the Best Deals
1. What is the absolute cheapest month to visit London?
Answer: The cheapest month is January (after New Year’s). Hotels and flights drop significantly because tourist demand is low. Expect 40-50% discounts on accommodations compared to summer. The weather is cold (around 5°C/41°F), but you’ll avoid crowds at major attractions like the British Museum (which is free!).
2. Is London expensive even in the off-season?
Answer: London is always pricier than smaller cities, but visiting in November, January, or February cuts costs dramatically. Budget travelers can find:
- Hostels from £15-£25/night (check Hostelworld).
- Flights from Europe for under £50 (search Ryanair).
- Meals for under £5 at supermarkets like Tesco.
3. How can I save money on flights to London?
Answer:
✔ Book 2-3 months early (last-minute fares spike).
✔ Fly on weekdays (Tuesdays/Wednesdays are cheapest).
✔ Use flight comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner.
✔ Consider nearby airports (Gatwick or Luton often have cheaper flights than Heathrow).
4. Are there any free attractions in London?
Answer: Yes! London has world-class free attractions, including:
- British Museum (Website)
- National Gallery (Visit info)
- Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
- Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (free to watch).
5. What’s the best way to get around London cheaply?
Answer:
- Oyster Card (cheaper than single tickets; buy here).
- Buses (only £1.75 per ride).
- Walking (central London is very walkable).
- Avoid black cabs (Uber or Bolt are cheaper).
6. Can I visit London on £50 a day?
Answer: Yes, if you budget carefully! Here’s how:
- Accommodation: £20 (hostel dorm).
- Food: £10 (supermarket meal deals + cheap eats).
- Transport: £5 (Oyster Card cap for buses).
- Attractions: £15 (or £0 if you stick to free museums).
7. Is it worth buying the London Pass for budget travelers?
Answer: Only if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions daily. The pass costs £79+ per day, so calculate if you’ll see enough sights to justify it. For budget travelers, free museums + 2-for-1 deals (with a train ticket) are often better.
8. What’s the best area to stay in London for budget travelers?
Answer:
- Zone 2-3 areas (cheaper than central London):
- Camden (vibrant, hostels from £20).
- Greenwich (scenic, good transport links).
- Stratford (near Olympic Park, budget hotels).
- Avoid Mayfair, Kensington, or Westminster (expensive!).
9. How can I eat cheaply in London?
Answer:
- Supermarkets: Tesco Meal Deal (£3.50 for sandwich + drink + snack).
- Markets: Borough Market has £5 street food (Website).
- Apps: Too Good To Go sells discounted restaurant leftovers (Download).
- Pubs: Wetherspoon offers £6 meals + cheap beer.
10. Should I avoid London during major events?
Answer: Yes, if you’re on a tight budget. Events like:
- Wimbledon (July) = hotels spike.
- New Year’s Eve = 3x normal prices.
- Christmas markets (December) = crowds + high costs.
Exception: If you really want to experience an event, book 6+ months early for deals.
