If you're hunting for affordable things to do in London while balancing your studies, we’ve curated a list that covers every interest—from adrenaline-filled adventures to cultural discovery and scenic escapes—all while keeping your student budget in mind.
According to millions of prospective students navigating our platforms, London ranks second among the best cities to study abroad in Europe, with over one million students searching for programs on Online Result over the past two years.
You know the academic reputation, but what about the social life? London is packed with student-friendly entertainment. With 193 museums, thousands of parks making up 40% of the city’s green space, 344 km of cycling lanes, and 3,544 historic pubs, the UK’s capital offers endless ways to unwind without overspending.
What to do in London on a student budget
Cycle in London
London is vast, and budget-conscious students often find cycling the most efficient—and healthy—way to get around. Check out these cycleways in London to map out your next urban adventure on two wheels.
You can rent a bike for as little as £1.65, or get a membership starting at £20 per month or £120 annually for unlimited 60-minute rides.
Visit Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge
In northeast London, you’ll find the historic Epping Forest, a stunning natural escape featuring ancient woodlands, charming traditional marketplaces, and Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, which dates back to 1543.
See the deer living in the middle of London
You might not expect to spot deer roaming in the heart of London, but that’s exactly what awaits at Richmond Park. It’s also home to tranquil ponds, picturesque cottages, and beautiful woodland gardens.
Discover the first dinosaur statues from Victorian times
A trip to Crystal Palace offers a unique look at Victorian-era dinosaur statues—a quirky mix of history and artistic interpretation. Beyond the dinos, you can explore the expansive 1,100-square-metre skatepark or navigate the UK’s largest maze.
Play a Questo game
A Questo game is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to explore London. These outdoor escape games blend thematic tours with immersive storytelling, challenging you to solve clues while uncovering fascinating historical facts throughout the city.
Get lost in the plant realm at Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to over 50,000 plant species. Highlights include the Victorian-era Temperate House, the exotic Palm House, serene Japanese gardens, and the Kitchen Garden. It’s an immersive experience for any nature lover or architecture enthusiast.
Students can enjoy discounted entry to the gardens, with tickets capping at £10.00 during peak times (1 February to 31 October).
Cultural things for rainy days in London
While sunny days are perfect for beer gardens, London is famously unpredictable. When the rain moves in, why not duck indoors and soak up the city’s world-class culture instead?
Visit a museum
London life can be expensive, but you don’t need a fortune to access its world-famous museums. In fact, 71 of London’s 193 museums offer completely free admission.
- See some of the most valuable cultural artefacts in the world
The British Museum is an absolute must-see, spanning two million years of human history. From Ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern artwork, it offers an incredible, cost-free journey through global culture.
- Learn all about our natural world
The Natural History Museum is a treasure trove for science fans. Explore incredible wildlife exhibits, dinosaur skeletons, and rare specimens collected by Charles Darwin, all with free entry.
- Experience British Art through the ages
Tate Britain is a sanctuary for art lovers. Established in 1897, it houses a stunning collection of British art throughout the ages. Entry is free, making it a perfect spot for some quiet, creative inspiration.
>> Beyond these three landmarks, you can browse this complete list of all 193 London museums.
Swap the cinema with the theatre
London and theatre are synonymous. Given the city’s rich theatrical history, catching a West End show is an essential student experience. With over 40 theatres in the district, you’re spoilt for choice. Here are a few standouts:
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the oldest theatre in London, first opening its doors in 1663. Entry-level tickets start at just £20.
The Royal Opera House is one of the world's most prestigious venues. If you’re aged 16–25, you can grab tickets for just £25.
Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction located just 200 meters from the original theatre where the Bard’s masterpieces were first performed.
Adventurous things to do in spring in London
Your student years are the prime time for adventure. Need a rush of adrenaline in London? We’ve got you covered.
Whether you want to be on the water, high in the trees, or rolling in a giant ball, here are some high-octane ideas for your next outing:
- See London from a speed boat
Imagine taking in the sights of Big Ben while speeding at 35 mph (56 km/h). If that sounds like your kind of day, the Thames Rocket Ultimate London Adventure offers an exhilarating 50-minute boat ride for £45.
- Roll down a hill in a spherical capsule
For something truly different, try Go Zorbing London. Whether you choose the harness ride or the water-filled aqua zorbing, it's a hilariously memorable experience for you and a friend. Packages start at £70 for two people or £90 for three.
- Have a treetop adventure
At Go Ape Battersea, you can traverse tree-to-tree obstacles and zip lines right in the heart of London. Plus, they offer a 10% student discount!
>> For even more inspiration, keep an eye on Eventbrite and VisitEngland for updated listings on events, workshops, and festivals across the city throughout the year.
Okay, stop reading and start planning your next London adventure!