Planning a family trip to London on a budget might sound like a challenge, but with the right tips, it’s more than possible. London is one of the world’s great cities, full of history, culture, and kid-friendly fun, and it can absolutely be done without draining your savings. You just need to know where to look, what to skip, and how to plan.
Here’s a better way to see London: local, affordable, and full of spectacular moments.
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1. Where to Stay in London on a Budget (with Kids)
Where you stay in London can make or break your trip, especially with kids. Skip the cramped and costly hotel rooms and opt for apartment rentals that give your family space, flexibility, and a touch of home.
Hotels in London can leave you crammed into a tiny room with barely enough space to swing a backpack, let alone accommodate kids with energy to burn. Instead, consider booking a short-term rental through Airbnb, VRBO, or even Plum Guide.
- Airbnb or VRBO apartments often come with multiple bedrooms, a living space, and a kitchen—which means comfort, privacy, and cost savings.
- Look in residential neighborhoods like Greenwich, Hammersmith, Southwark, or even Camden. These areas give you a taste of real London life and are often less expensive than central London options.
- A kitchen is a game-changer for families. It means no scrambling for breakfast every morning, and the option to cook easy meals instead of relying on pricey restaurants.
During our stay, we rented an apartment in North London. Not only was it spacious and quiet, but it also came with a local market around the corner and an easy walk to the Tube. After a long day sightseeing, coming back to a calm, comfortable home base made all the difference.
2. Affordable Things to Do in London with Kids
You don’t have to spend a fortune to fill your days with adventure in London. In fact, many of the city’s best experiences, especially for families, are completely free.
London is packed with iconic attractions and many of the best ones are free. Whether you’re into culture, history, or green spaces, there’s no shortage of family-friendly adventures that won’t cost a thing.
- Museums: The British Museum (hello Rosetta Stone), Natural History Museum (complete with dinosaurs), and the Science Museum are all free and great for kids.
- Iconic sights: Walk across Tower Bridge, visit Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and snap a photo outside Buckingham Palace all classic and all free.
- Parks: Let the kids roam in Hyde Park, paddle in the Serpentine, or explore the whimsical Diana Memorial Playground.
- Markets: Borough Market is a food lover’s heaven, while Camden Market offers quirky shops and street performers.
- Sky Garden: Book in advance for a free ticket to some of the best panoramic views of the city.
These experiences not only save you money they help you slow down and soak in the city from a local’s perspective.
3. Getting Around London Without Breaking the Bank
London’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world and for families, it’s a budget-friendly lifesaver that gets you just about anywhere with ease.
Don’t even think about renting a car. London’s public transportation is extensive, efficient, and incredibly family-friendly.
- Get an Oyster Card (or just use your contactless debit/credit card or phone for the same fares).
- Kids under 11 travel free on the Tube, buses, and most trains when accompanied by an adult.
- Google Maps and Citymapper are your best friends use them to navigate routes, check delays, and plan your daily travel.
- Double-decker buses aren’t just transport they’re part of the adventure. Sit on the top deck and treat it like a built-in sightseeing tour. It was one of the first things we did when we got to London.
If you’re flying into Gatwick, hop on the Gatwick Express. It’s a fast, comfortable train to Victoria Station and often comes with 2-for-1 attraction deals—just make sure to keep your ticket.
4. Where to Eat in London on a Budget
Feeding your family in London doesn’t mean choosing between greasy fast food or pricey sit-down dinners. With the right approach, you can eat well and affordably every day.
London’s food scene is legendary but that doesn’t mean you need to drop $100 every time your kids get hungry.
- Grocery stores like Marks & Spencer, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s offer high-quality, ready-made meals, snacks, and breakfasts. Many even have meal deals (main, drink, snack) for under $5.
- Start your day with croissants, fruit, and yogurt from the shop it’s cheaper and faster than a café.
- Visit Borough Market or Mercato Metropolitano for diverse, delicious meals without the sit-down restaurant prices.
- Plan picnic lunches and eat in parks or by the river. It’s budget-friendly and relaxing.
Feeding a family doesn’t have to mean fast food or expensive restaurants just a bit of planning and flexibility.
5. How to Save Even More: London Passes, Discounts & Deals
The savings don’t stop with food and transport. London is full of ways to make your trip more affordable if you know where to look.
Want to hit some of the city’s best attractions without overpaying? Smart planning helps.
- The London Pass or Go City Explorer Pass lets you visit several top sights for one price. Check what’s included and do the math to see if it fits your itinerary.
- Train tickets from Gatwick (and other rail lines) often include 2-for-1 admission to popular sites. Use the Days Out Guide website to redeem them.
- Always book tickets online in advance many attractions offer discounts or skip-the-line access for early bookings.
Use the savings to grab an extra gelato or a London souvenir.
6. Sample Budget: 4 Days in London with a Family
Ever wonder what a real budget for a London family trip looks like? Here’s an honest, breakdown to help you plan smart and stress-free.
Here’s a realistic snapshot of what a budget-conscious family trip to London might look like:
- Lodging: $620 for 4 nights in a comfortable Airbnb outside central London
- Transportation: $125 (Oyster cards, airport transfers)
- Food: $185 (mix of groceries, takeaways, and a couple of sit-down meals)
- Attractions: $125 (a few ticketed events, mostly free activities)
Estimated Total: $1,055–$1,115 for a family of four. Not bad for one of the world’s most expensive cities. Not bad for one of the world’s most expensive cities while staying within budget.
7. Best Time to Visit London for Families
Timing your visit right can make a huge difference in your overall experience and your budget. If you’re traveling with kids, June is your best bet.
If your schedule allows, June is the sweet spot. Here’s why:
- Crowds are thinner than peak summer months
- Flights and accommodations are often cheaper
- The weather is (usually) milder warm enough to enjoy the parks without battling a heatwave
Try to book your trip as soon as the school year ends. Waiting until July means paying more and dealing with packed attractions.
London Memories Don’t Have to Cost a Fortune
You don’t need a five-star hotel or a bottomless bank account to have a great time in London. In fact, it’s the simpler, more thoughtful moments that often stand out.
London is one of those rare cities that delivers on the hype. From ancient towers to futuristic skyscrapers, from royal pomp to street art and grime, it’s got a rhythm all its own. And you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy it.
By focusing on experiences, embracing public transport, and choosing the right places to eat and stay, you can give your family an adventure they’ll talk about for years without maxing out your credit cards.
👉 Need help packing? Check out our guide on what to pack for your family trip to London.
👉 Planning your full itinerary? Don’t miss our 5-day London itinerary for families.
London is calling. Just remember to bring your Oyster Card and maybe a rain jacket.
