Culture in London on a budget
No visit to London could be complete without a dip in its thriving cultural scene. Sure, the star-studded plays sell out months in advance, but you don’t necessarily have to shell out to get your culture fix here. From free stand-up comedy to tours of ancient Egyptian art, the city’s distinctive blend of high-brow and low-brow is accessible to everyone.
See the Bard’s plays as they were intended, or catch a glimpse of the next big thing in one of London’s plucky under-the radar-galleries. Here’s our guide for culture vultures on a budget.
London culture for less
Junkyard Golf
88 Worship Street, EC2A 2BE
Nearest Tube station: Liverpool Street
Car wrecks, salvaged materials and bric-à-brac form the backdrop to this subterranean mini-golf spot with a distinctly 90s air. It’s open to under-18s – as long as they’re with an adult – from Sunday to Wednesday before 7pm. Music and a cocktail bar lend the venue a party atmosphere that appeals to teens and parents alike. Just be sure to book on the website to secure a slot.
The National Gallery
Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN
Tick off Cézanne’s Bathers, Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and more – it’s free to visit the permanent collections.
Shakespeare’s Globe
21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT
For the most authentic (and cheapest) way to see a play here, stand in the yard as a ‘groundling’ (£5).
Tate Modern
Bankside, SE1 9TG
Art without the entry charge: see the latest Turbine Hall installation, then climb the newer Blavatnik Building for extraordinary views.
Top Secret Comedy Club
170 Drury Lane, WC2B 5PD
This scruffy, underground Covent Garden club is famed for its free comedy nights, which star the odd big name.
V&A
Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL
Free to visit, the art and design collections are endlessly fascinating, running from delicate Qing dynasty teapots to edgy McQueen frocks.
The Photographers' Gallery
16–18 Ramillies Street, W1F 7LW
See world class exhibitions without paying a penny – if you visit before noon.
Peckhamplex
95A Rye Lane, SE15 4ST
Cinema tickets at the ’Plex are a mere £4.99 – almost unheard of in pricey London.
British Museum
Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG
This iconic museum is crammed with treasures, from the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon marbles to its mummified cats.
NOW Gallery
Peninsula Square, SE10 0SQ
Cette petite galerie à Greenwich a le don pour dénicher les artistes et designers du moment. Au palmarès de ses expos gratuites, une installation florale de Rebecca Louise Law.
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