Save Yourself With These Life Hacks In London

It is merely impossible to live in London and not crave a good old cup of tea! Waitrose couldn’t agree more and they have introduced a loyalty card scheme that allows you to pop into any of their stores for a free, hot drink, anytime. What an ideal way to warm up, without spending a penny!

Sometimes you can actually save yourself quite a bit of time by walking between the underground stations, instead of using the tube. For example, it is easier and faster to walk to Euston station from Kings Cross, as you can use the side exit by Dune Shoes and walk past the British library, make a right and follow straight down to find yourself at Euston! The tube takes around ten minutes, whereas the walk is only five minutes!

Next time you’re in London, take a minute to register with The Cloud, and take advantage of the free networks available. Free networks are also available at many stores including Starbucks, Pret a Manger, EAT, Caffè Nero, McDonald’s, and throughout London’s financial district.

Do you appreciate art and love wine? If so, every first and last Thursday of each month make your way to Eastcastle Street in Fitzrovia. The gallery there has a late night opening and includes a free glass of wine.

Why work within the four walls of your office when you can experience a more open space? Head down to the Barbican Conservatory, a place tucked away from tourists with lovely outdoor garden space to enjoy. This is perfect during the summer if you want to escape the office and still work. If the weather in London infamously lets you down, you can set up in a corner of the Royal Festival Hall.

Working out the best shortcuts through London’s underground can be difficult. However, rest assured, there is an app called station master that has all the shortcuts for you to get you through the tunnels quickly.

Beat the boredom and try a new activity for free, without worrying about investing in something that you may not enjoy. There are a variety of free activities available in London, including free workout sessions, dance classes and many more! Sweaty Betty offers free fitness classes and all you need to do is register as a member at one of their stores and book a class in advance.

Is there a better way to unwind than indulging in a free drink? Go ahead and download the drinki app, check into your location on Facebook and grab yourself a free drink. Not only does the bar get free publicity, but you enjoy a free cocktail. It’s a win-win situation.

Everyone wants to visit The Shard at some point, but you can be cheeky and just book a trip to the Walkie Talkie Sky garden and enjoy views just as beautiful. The sky garden has a lovely view but the waiting list requires advanced booking.

Train stations can be an absolute nightmare, especially when you need to use the toilet. No need to rummage around for 30 pence. Just take the lift up to the first class lounge at Kings Cross and be ready for your travels, whether it’s the Eurostar straight into Paris or just a journey further into London.

It’s no secret that London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. In order to manage costs, stay informed on deals and events. Just follow @skintlondon and check out the cost saving offers.

Are you a fan of the museums, but find it difficult to enjoy London’s museums during the day? Have yourself a drink among adults and take a buzzing peak into history, while avoiding hordes of tour groups. The National History Museum and Science Museum both offer late night openings. The difference is that you can escape the chaos at museums during the day and take your time to appreciate these beautiful spaces.

When you’re on your way home, go into stores and bakeries just before they close and save yourself some money by getting half priced or reduced goods. A lot of supermarkets reduce their fresh bakery treats and have offers later in the day, such as two for one deals and up to 75 percent off the original price! Marks and Spencer is one place that offers substantial reductions in the evening.

This is the place to be when you’re looking for free food. You will feel like a kid in a candy store! Borough Market brings you a huge variety of jams, breads, chutneys, cheese, cured meats and many more mouth-watering delicacies. The best part is that you don’t have to buy anything! You will find free samples everywhere, as you make your way through the market and before you know it, you will leave with a full belly.

Need a little help with your fashion style? No need to feel intimidated by London’s fashion trends because Topshop has a brilliant personalised shopping experience that’s offered at their London Oxford street store. What’s even better is that there is no minimum spending required. You can learn what style fits your body shape by trying on the latest fashionable pieces, with a stylist at hand.

Love cycling, but don’t have your own bicycle? You can use the Santander bicycles in London, which can be found at many locations and you can save yourself money by paying two pounds for 24 hours. Just make sure to dock your bicycle every 30 minutes and you’ll only end up paying two pounds for the whole day!