One of the most iconic cities of the world, London is at the top of countless travel bucket lists. Big Ben towers over the River Thames and double decker red buses zip around corners. London was my first trip abroad in high school, and since then, I have returned twice to experience more of London’s unparalleled charm. With rich history, beautiful architecture, and distinct culture, London is truly unmistakable from any other city.
I travelled to London for Columbus Day weekend to visit my brother who is currently studying abroad. From New York, it may seem like a long way to go for a weekend, but by taking a red-eye flight each way, you can maximize your time. London, like most cities, comes with a high price tag, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money to experience the city. Here are my suggestions for what to do for a weekend in London on a student budget.
Bike Through Hyde Park
The Royal Gardens of Hyde Park are the most well-kept green spaces in any cosmopolitan area. Different pathways designated for walking and biking carve through the park. For only £2 you can rent a Santander Cycle, London’s self-hire bicycle program and have access to the bikes for a 24-hour period. Biking through Hyde Park is a great way to experience the massive green space. You can also use the bikes as an alternative to public transportation. During fall, the colors of the park are beautiful. Bike along the different lakes and pathways lined with trees. Be sure to stop at Kensington Palace and take a stroll through the gardens.
Visit the British Museum
While entrance to some museums can be astronomically expensive, the British Museum is free to all visitors. The massive museum holds a vast collection of works and historical artifacts. My favorite is the Egyptian collection where you can see the Rosetta Stone and sand dried mummies dating back 5,000 years. Other highlights include a Moai statue from Easter Island and Parthenon sculptures.
Hold Your Pinkies up for High Tea
Nothing is more British than a nice afternoon tea. Sipping from pretty china with your pinky out is a must-do while visiting the city. While tea rooms like Sketch London can cost upwards of £60 per person, there are much more affordable ways to do tea. My personal favorite is The Tea Room at Harrods, London's premier shopping destination. I went there with my brother and we ordered two pots of tea and a plate of scones served with clotted cream and an assortment of jams. The total cost was about £20. Another budget-friendly spot is Patisserie Valerie, a chain located throughout central London. Pots of tea are under £3 and there is a large menu of handmade cakes and pastries.
Eat Your Way Through Camden Market
Overflowing with food stands and shopping, Camden Market is the perfect place to go for lunch on the weekend. Packed with both tourists and locals, there’s a reason the market has become so popular. Here you’ll find every type of food from British classics like fish and chips to Chinese, Thai, Spanish, and Indian selections. Head down the corridor at the front of the market, and you’ll find a labyrinth of indoor shops and stands selling everything from British punk rock accessories to leather hand bags and vintage dishware.
Explore Notting Hill
Notting Hill is a district in West London best known for Portobello Market, antique shopping, and Victorian-style homes. Walk through the neighborhood and check out the various street vendors and shops. Along Portobello Street, food vendors and antique sellers attract a sizeable number of tourists. The colorful streets and cute cafes make it totally Instagram-worthy. While not a priority for a first-time time trip to London, it is a great area to check out on a second or third visit.
What to Wear:
While we might not have the wardrobe of British style icons like Princess Kate Middleton, we can take notes from both classic and eclectic British street style. London is rainy year-round, so you can’t go wrong with packing a trench coat. You can pair this timeless piece with anything else you pack. Throw it over a dress for dinner, or wear with jeans and a sweater for walking around the city. Here is a link to one of my favorite trench coat options by Ralph Lauren.
