With the great fares to London at the moment, some might be pondering a trip across the pond. I thought I would add up what a week in London might cost when you consider the rest of the expenses. Included are flights, accommodation, transportation and sightseeing. The cost of food was left out as that will vary depending on the travellers’ preferences. Here’s an example for 4 adults departing from Halifax.
Airfare
Oct. 9-17
Halifax – London $574 WestJet
Accommodation
As I mentioned in my Budget Tips for London post, renting an apartment can be a great value. You’ll have more room and can save by making some of your own meals. Also, if you have a group of adults, the cost of sharing a two bedroom is generally cheaper than two hotel rooms. Here’s one currently available on these dates according to the website. (These holiday flats are basic but get very good reviews as a great bargain in London). The rental cost is 929 GBP per week or $1571. There is also a one bedroom at 740 GBP or $1251.
Transportation
Landing at Gatwick means taking the train into the city. A return ticket would be 19.50 GPB or $32.97. Then you need to purchase a 7 day Travelcard for 32.40 GBP or $54.79.
Activities
7 nights gives you 6 full days to scratch the surface of London. If it’s your first time there you’ll probably want to visit some of the more famous places. For example:
Westminster Abbey – 20 GBP
Tower of London – 25 GBP
Churchill War Rooms – 19 GBP
St. Paul’s Cathedral – 18 GBP
City Cruises – 18.50 GBP
London Eye – 24.95 GBP
With the Days Out Guide 2for1 promotion, your admissions cost would be 125.45 GBP for 2 or $212.12. So, $106.06 each.
If you’d like to take in a show, pick up some discount tickets at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square or buy online. Prices vary but for the purpose of this exercise I’ll say 30 GBP or $50 per ticket.
Otherwise, take advantage of all the free opportunities. Check out Trafalgar Square, Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. See the Canadian memorial in Green Park. Visit a few of the wonderful free museums.
Food
This cost will really depend on how much and what type of dining out you do. The rental apartments mentioned above are near a Waitrose supermarket so you can peruse the website to get an idea of prices.
An interesting dining option near Trafalgar Square is the Cafe in the Crypt at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church. If you go to Borough Market there are many good takeaway lunch options. (I recommend the mackerel bap)
Total (per person)
Airfare $574
Transportation $88
Accommodation $393
Activities $156
= $1211
Additional costs will include food, travel insurance, bank/credit card foreign exchange fees, and incidentals.
A week in London is a wonderful experience!
Leave a Reply