London is a Mecca for business and leisure travellers throughout the world, and quite rightly so.  There is so much diversity, beauty and exciting things to do and see in London.  The only downside is that London is one of the most expensive cities in the world!  Don't panic, with a little creativity and ingenuity, staying in London on a budget is possible. 

Our team at Quality London Apartments have compiled some ideas to help all travellers visit London without breaking the bank.

Tip 1: Shop around when booking for a taxi or airport transfer service.  Prices vary wildly so best to not leave it to the last minute.  Ask your travel agent or someone you know in London and they can direct you in the right direction.  But do not try to cut too many corners by going with an unlicensed taxi, as this is dangerous and potentially hazardous to your health.

Tip 2: Travel by underground station or buses instead of taxis.  Buy Oyster card for pay as you go, or if you are staying in London for 7 nights or for longer, you can purchase a weekly travel card.  Buses are generally cheaper than train, so if you don't mind a slightly longer journey (dependent on road traffic) a bus fare start from £1.10 one way instead of £2.20 train fare.

Tip 3: Needless to say shop around for a hotel promotion to ensure that you get the best deal or just call them up directly to negotiate.  In hotels, there is usually a mini bar, but don't eat or drink anything in there as the prices are extortionate.  You can buy some of your own drinks and snacks from a local shop and replace them in the mini bar for your own consumption.  However, do check that some mini bars have sensors and will know if you move any of their products.

Tip 4: Be prepared to stay in accommodation out of the central areas of London.  Some good areas, with convenient underground links are Kilburn, Canary Wharf, Stratford, and Fulham.  Areas like Oxford Street and Mayfair are very expensive because of their location.

Tip 5: Avoid overpriced tourist traps and visit the free museums, galleries and parks.  Free museums include Victoria and Albert, Science museum and Natural History museum.  Free galleries include Tate Britain, National Gallery and many others.  Free parks are Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Regents Park as well as many others.

Tip 6: If there is a group of 3-6 people, forget hotels and book London serviced apartments instead, as self catering flats can accommodate more people, so the average price per head is cheaper than a London hotel.  There is also the benefit of having a separate lounge and kitchen to cook meals, which again saves you money over your stay.  If you are really on a budget, don't try to book a two bedroom to accommodate 4 people, just book a one bedroom or even a studio which has bedding for 4 people, this will save you even more money.  It will be a bit tight but if it is just a place to sleep after a hard day's traipsing around London then it will suffice. For more about London apartments visit QualityLondonApartments.co.uk

Tip 7: London bars and restaurants can be very expensive, but there are always lots of deals going on especially on Toptable.co.uk. Deals can range from 30% discounts off normal menus, or even drinks. 

Tip 8: To save money in bars and pubs, go there during happy hour which is normally from 5-7pm daily.  Many offers range from half price or 2 for 1.  The trick is to buy a lot of drinks during happy hour for a reduced price, and drink them throughout the evening!