London does not usually bring to mind 'cheap' let alone 'free', but this a real mistake, as there is so much available cheaply or free. The capital has some of the grandest art galleries, museums and parks in the world, and many are open to everyone. If transport is expensive, you can always walk through the city. This is not as silly as it sounds because London is a rambler's dream, with its small alleys, oasis of historical gems amongst the modern architecture. You would miss so many of the city's quirky character if you just stick to the car. Here is a useful website for walks
www.walklondon.org.uk. Throughout a year in exciting London, there are many brilliant events for free, so to save some money why not plan your visit to London accordingly?
Please see list of events:
January Chinese New YearA spectacular annual celebration in the heart of London's Chinatown, which attracts large crowds. The event changes every year as Chinese New Year also changes from either late January to early February, so make sure that you check ahead for the specific date. There are fireworks, martial arts exhibition and exuberant parades of the dragons. Of course, if you feel a bit hungry, you can then pop into one of the excellent restaurants for dim sum or an evening meal.
www.london.gov.uk nearest station is Leicester Square.
London ParadeThis New Year's Day parade is a sight to remember, because it is really bright, loud and hugely entertaining. It attracts hundreds of thousands into the heart of London, rain or shine because it helps them feel the optimism and gaiety of the New Year. There are thousands of majorettes, floats, dance displays and clowns to amuse you and the children. The route starts from Parliament square at noon and the band reaches Berkeley Square in Mayfair about 3pm. You will also see the procession of horse drawn carriages with the Lord Mayor of Wesminster and mayors of all the London boroughs.
www.londonparade.co.ukFebruaryPancake Day racesOn Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, groups of people compete to run while tossing pancakes at Spitalfields or Covent Garden. This usually occurs at noon or so. Nearest station is Liverpool street.
MarchOxford & Cambridge Boat RaceIs this possibly the world's most famous boat race? Starting with the first race in 1830, the two universities have never lost their rivalry and hence this grand tradition keeps everyone enthralled even though it only lasts for 18 minutes or so. One of the best places to view the race is at Hammersmith as it is half way for the race and there are places where you can rest with friends and have some food! Nearest station is Hammersmith, Putney Bridge.
www.theboatrace.orgAprilFlora London MarathonMakes me tired just imagining those poor thousands of people running for 26 miles, which is why I prefer to be a spectator at this world famous marathon. From its humble beginning in 1981, the London marathon has grown exponentially to attracting over 35,000 runners, half of which is running for charity, and half a million of spectators.
It is also a great chance to spot some famous people as they run for charity, especially if they are wearing a costume. The race starts around 9am at Greenwich Park and ends outside Buckingham Palace.
www.london-marathon.co.ukMayCoin Street FestivalOne of the gems of this city is the South Bank, because on a beautiful day, you can see the vista of the city and the Thames while listening to free street music. This very popular festival takes place from June to September and is a recognition and celebration of all the types of people who visit, work and live in London. There are street performances like African storytelling, live music and workshops for children. Nearest station is Waterloo, Southwark.
www.coinstreet.orgMay Fayre & Puppet Festival In the heart of St Paul's Church, this event is about celebrating the art of puppetry, so expect to see puppet performances, especially the traditional Punch and Judy show. Nearest tube is Covent Garden, Leicester Square
www.alternativearts.co.ukJuneTrooping the ColourA Saturday in early June sees the celebration of the Queen's official birthday, when she inspects a military display at Horse Guards Parade. Around 1pm there is an RAF flypast down the Mall. You can watch this exciting spectacle for free in the Mall. Nearest station is St James' Park.
www.trooping-the-colour.co.ukCity of London Festival The Financial district of London really comes into its own in June with this popular festival to celebrate the beauty of world music. There many free events mainly around lunchtime in the Square mile, with jazz, latin, brass bands and many other type of music.
www.colf.orgPride LondonThis is the capital's largest gay and lesbian festival attracting around 750,000 people in 2008. It is recognition of London's diversity.
www.pridelondon.orgJulyCroydon Summer FestivalFor about two weeks in July, the home town of the famous model Kate Moss, host free events for all the family, ranging from free live jazz and Caribbean music. One of the highlight of this event is the Asian music festival.
www.croydonfestival.comAugustNotting Hill CarnivalThe august bank holiday hosts one of London's most colourful and fantastic parties in London. The carnival celebrates Caribbean culture with vibrant costumes, floats, music and food. So if you like your reggae, hip hop and much more, this is the place to be for an unforgettable street party. Nearest station is Notting Hill Gate, Ladbroke Grove.
www.nottinghillcarnival.bizSeptemberLondon Open HouseSpread throughout the month, many of London's houses are opened to the public, ranging from theatres, colleges, cinemas and many others. This event is really a chance for the public to take pride in London's architectural heritage and show the hidden gems in the city. Throughout various locations, so check the website
www.londonopenhouse.orgOctoberSt George in Southwark FestivalA multicultural festival commemorating St George, who is the patron saint of England. The celebration is dotted throughout Southwark and London Bridge with performances by the local theatre groups, talks and guided tours of the Cathedral. So if you want to learn more about England's patron saint, visit the website for more details.
www.stgeorgefestival.org.ukState Opening of ParliamentOn this grand day as tradition dictates, Queen Elizabeth rides from Buckingham Palace to Westminster to deliver the Queen's Speech and then returns to Palace. This ceremony is the queen's way of allowing parliament to 'open for business'. The Queen is decked out in the royal regalia and rides in her coach. Nearest station is Westminster.
www.parliament.ukNovember Lord Mayor's ShowI cannot underestimate how popular this show is, so if you do wish to go there, make sure you start early otherwise it is nigh impossible to find somewhere to stand with a good view of procession. Since 1215 there has been an annual Lord Mayor's Show, where the Lord Mayor meet the Queen's Justices. The show takes place on the second Saturday of November annually and begins at the Guildhall at around 11am. There are horses, floats, bands and the Lord Mayor's gilded 18th century coach. A great day out for families and children. Nearest tube is either Bank or Embankment .
www.lordmayorsshow.orgDecemberChristmas TreeThe largest Christmas Tree in the UK which is erected in Trafalgar Square is a beautiful sight to behold. There are the twinkling lights and carol concerts as well to turn you into the Festive mood. And conveniently just around the corner are the art galleries if you are looking to end your day with some cultural enjoyment, or if you just want something to eat, just pop to Chinatown.
www.london.gov.ukNew Year's EveIn the old days, it was tradition to congregate in Trafalgar Square and bathe in ice cold water from the fountain. But as this became more and more crowded, thus dangerous, the focus has moved toward the fireworks on the embankment and the London Eye. To get to the Embankment go the Embankment station, for Trafalgar Square go the Leicester Square station. There is no other way to say goodbye to the old year and in with the new, but if you are scared of crowds, this is not for you as it can become claustrophobic.
I hope this is of help to you reader. Whilst visiting London, you will need quality accommodation, so before choosing a small hotel room, do consider London serviced apartments as they are cheaper and can accommodate a whole family. To cap it all, our search and book service is FREE for you, so do call for an up-to-date quote.
Binh Zientek
Accommodation Specialist
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