Sir John Soane's Museum
This elegant house museum is right by Lincoln's Inn Fields in the heart of historic Holborn. The building was originally home to renowned architect John Soane who brought much of the neo-classical style to London. Inside you’ll find historical artefacts that give you insights not just into this great man’s life and career, but the city itself.
You can almost feel the city skyline of years gone by come back to life before your eyes. Soane is a man who was known across the city for the magnificence of his creations, and it’s a legacy that continues to be in fine fettle to this day. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to be able to get to know London on a deeper level.
Primrose Hill
Take a look around this iconic Grade II listed park just a little walk north of Regent's Park and you’ll see why it’s been a popular destination since it opened all the way back in 1842. A natural hill lies at the centre and gives the park its name, while the enchanting nature of the greenery provides welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of the main streets.
Finding a little time for a picnic or a cold drink on the grass followed by a casual stroll around one of the many beautifully kept paths is highly recommended. You can think of it as a chance to get back in touch with the natural world without having to escape the city. Perfect when you want to be able to get away from it all and slow things down for an hour or two.
Leadenhall Market
Next up is a historic covered market on Gracechurch Street. This 14th century meeting place and trade hub was actually the inspiration for the eclectic Diagon Alley of Harry Potter for those who are in love with a literary reference. Traders from all walks of life bring their produce to the market throughout the week, offering a scene that ebbs and flows with every step.
Simply taking a stroll and exploring the goods is a great way to get to know the city and pass the time, even if you don’t decide to treat yourself to all that much. But be warned, you’re sure to be tempted by some of the fresh baking goods whose aromas appear to flow through the air and make a beeline for you.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Head over to Bethnal Green, walk down Columbia Road, and browse a row of Victorian shops unlike any other. While the market is only open for business on Sundays, it’s certainly worth penciling into the diary if you’ve never been. Getting out into the open air and browsing at your leisure is what a casual stroll through a bustling market is all about.
You never know, you might just find a few affordable bits and pieces along the way that allow you to dress the home to impress. Just what you want to hear when it’s time to create a theme that is sure to make you smile every time you walk into the room.
The Hunterian Museum
A spooky setting that is packed to the rafters with the weird and wonderful medical specimens collected over the years by the famous John Hunter. If you want to be able to take the family out for a day without going to some of the busier museums — and the expensive gift shops and cafes they offer — this is the place to add to your shortlist without delay.
Getting a greater appreciation of how so much of the knowledge we now take for granted and google in an instant was discovered is a profound experience. During the course of your visit, you’ll get a real sense of what it meant to discover new things, present groundbreaking findings, and postulate new theories to a captive audience.
Brick Lane
Lastly, surely, you’re now ready for a bite to eat to finish off your day. Take in the stunning street art the place is known for before taking your pick from the dozens of affordable eateries that line the neighbourhood. From restaurants that are perfect for formal evening meals to cafes that are great for a casual bite to eat, you’re sure to find a little something for everyone. Ideal when you want to treat the whole family to a truly memorable bite to eat.
As you make your way home after a day, you’ll remember for years to come, you’ll also know that your budget can stretch to another great day out next weekend. Perfect when you want to be able to enjoy life without ever having to go without.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to cross your fingers and hope you win the lottery, try and get a stroke of luck on an online casino game or win a competition to be able to afford to have fun in London. Put your phone down, head out the door, and take a look at some of the affordable sites and activities we’ve described above and you’re sure to have a day to remember.
All you have to do now is take a quick look at our options, pick a few to add to your shortlist, and then let the rest of the family have their day. Ideal when you want to be able to have all the fun in the world, but without the price tag that normally comes with it.