Let’s Go: Britain on a Budget
Britain is one of the most expensive countries on the planet for travelers, but don’t be discouraged when your friends come back with stories of £5 cups of coffee. In fact, there’s a whole world of things you can do in Britain for under £5. We know, because we’ve made a list of our ten favorites:
- Bask in Britain’s (manicured) natural beauty in London’ s Regent’s Park, originally designed for the wealthy, but open now to the public. Free.
- With a 404 ft. spire and a copy of the Magna Carta, the Salisbury Cathedral is sure to delight. Suggested donation.
- Considered the finest Norman cathedral in the world, Durham Cathedral houses an exquisite nave, a monk’s dormitory, and a Bishop’s Throne that stands 3 in. higher than the Pope’s. Suggested donation £4.
- Built in AD 122, Hadrian’s Wall was created to protect the farthest borders of Rome. The best ruins are along the western part of the wall. Free.
- A daytrip from Cardiff, Caerphilly Castle is a masterpiece of defensive castle design, with concentric fortified walls, two parapets, and a moat. £3.50.
- The expanses and seclusion of Gower Peninsula’s Rhossili Beach reward visitors willing to make the trek. Free.
- South of Aberdeen, the ruins of Dunnottar Castle cling to Scotland’s coastline. £4.
- Often billed as the eighth wonder of the world, the Giant’s Causeway comprises 38,000 basalt columns. Free.
- Enter London’s British Museum to discover 50,000 museum items. Free.
- Be a groundling at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater and see a world-class play. £5.
LONDON ON THE CHEAP
When you’re in London, Let’s Go will help you avoid tourist traps and rip-offs and get the best experience on your limited budget. Here are just a couple of tips from our budget-savvy researchers.
VIEWS
While the London Eye does offer magnificent views (particularly at night), the queues are long, and it’s expensive. For equally impressive sights in a quieter atmosphere, head to the Monument, Primrose Hill, or Hampstead Heath. If you have the cash to spare, do take a 30min. “flight” on the Eye; seeing the city lit up at night is a treat.
SHOPPING
Both claustrophobia-inducing and invigorating, the hugely popular, bustling Spitalfields Market in East London is widely regarded as the best in the area. With an impressive array of organic fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, and ethnic food vendors, Spitalfields is an eater’s paradise. Growing beyond its farmers’ market roots, however, Spitalfields has become one of the best spots to find clothing, jewelry, housewares, and art from trendy independent designers. On Sunday mornings, the rows of over 200 stalls are packed with fashion-conscious shoppers trolling for good finds. With that many people, it’s best to come prepared. Wear comfy shoes. Bring a bottle of water. Stretch. But please, don’t be the one taking your shirt off in the middle of the aisle in order to try on a potential purchase. Most designers showcase their selections in other parts of the city and will be happy to schedule a private appointment with you. Alternatively, the nearby Laden Showroom and Sunday (Up)Market display many of the same excellent finds as Spitalfields, but without the maddening crowds. Then again, the bustling atmosphere is part of the Spitalfields experience.