The UK may be brimming with history, culture, and amazing scenery, but it doesn’t have to leave you penniless.
Whether you want to explore must-see cities or go off the beaten track to the countryside, there are plenty of ways you can experience the very best of Britain on a budget. It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling alone, as a couple, or as a family, a cheaper way of doing things is never too far away. You do, however, have to be organised, be a little clever, and be open to everything that comes your way.
City Breaks on a Budget
Big British cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester might seem expensive, but in reality, there is a way to see them without breaking the bank. Free museums, walking tours, and markets provide lots of interest without the price tag. In London, for example, both the British Museum and the Natural History Museum are free to enter, and the Tate Modern is a great place to stay an hour or two away and find your inner exhibitionist. You can walk yourself up and down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and take a leisurely stroll through the history of the place. And you can head to Manchester’s Northern Quarter for a delicious taste of the city and a bit of independent shopping.
It doesn’t have to stop at accommodation either. A budget hotel chain, a hostel, or even university accommodation out of term time isn’t going to cost you an arm or a leg — and could potentially be another unique British experience for you. There are all kinds of options like Airbnb or Couchsurfing if you want to make your own adventure, and there’s always a good discount if you book in advance or travel off-peak.
Exploring the UK’s Natural Beauty
The UK is a choice with stunning natural beauty, from the rugged majesty of the Scottish Highlands to the gently rolling hills of the Cotswolds. A great many of our national parks are walking meccas, from Snowdonia in Wales to the Lake District in the north of England. There are often countless walks, free of charge, and several campsites, as cheap as chips, beds, and breakfasts to lay your head on.
If you like the coast, there’s no need to head to an extortionately over-priced resort like Brighton or Polzeath. Head to the likes of Cornwall and the Jurassic Coast down the East coast of England, and you’ll have your fill of awe-inspiring sea views and charming little villages for a fraction of the cost if you want to escape to the seaside.
Saving Money on Transport
Travelling around the UK doesn’t have to be expensive. Public transport is pretty cheap as a rule, and you’re better off on city buses or trams than you are on a taxi. Hiring a car, in the long run, and the short term, is likely to prove more expensive than other methods. Lots of the main cities offer a day-out bus or tram ticket for about £5, and you can travel as much as you want.
The cost of rail tickets can vary by a huge degree. Booking ahead, travelling off-peak, and using a railcard can knock huge sums off ticket prices. Another way to save is to use Split My Fare to split your train ticket by buying it in two parts rather than as a thorough journey. It’s an easy way to save huge sums that will help you travel the UK by train for less.
Affordable Food and Drink
Dining out in the UK can suddenly pile up into high costs. However, you don’t have to splash the cash to enjoy a decent eatery. Food markets and halls can provide local cuisine for just a fraction of the sit-down price. Borough Market in London, St. Nicholas Market in Bristol, and Grassmarket in Edinburgh are great options to try dishes unique to each city.
Pub lunches are usually an affordable option and a great way to try traditional British food, and many will also present an ‘early bird’ or lunch option at a reduced rate. Alternatively, supermarkets offer meal deals for those who’d rather eat in.
Making the Most of Free Attractions
You’ll be happy to know that so many of the prettiest sights in the UK can actually be done on the cheap. Explore Hadrian’s Wall on foot, wander York’s fairytale-like streets, or enjoy the beaches of Northumberland. Many of the UK’s castles and cathedrals have free entry days or can be visited on a donation basis.
Local festivals, street performances, and free live music are another way to gather just a little more of the UK culture on your trip and see a little more without spending so much. You can find listings for these events at listings websites to see what’s on at the time of your visit.
Best Times to Travel on a Budget
The time you visit the UK can also have a say in just how much you spend. Plan your trip for the shoulder seasons – that’s spring and autumn – when you’ll meet with fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodation and activities. Avoid weekends if you can, as travel midweek is usually less expensive than the weekend. Sales and discount tourist passes help you get more for less, too. If you’re visiting a city, have a look and see if any free events or festivals are happening around the time of your visit.