London’s buzzing playground, Soho is a treasure trove of oddball galleries, hidden nooks and quirky spots that’ll keep you entertained without breaking the bank.
Works on display at The Photographers’ Gallery (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Nestled in the heart of Central London, Soho has long been the city’s epicentre for entertainment. Once a hunting ground for the aristocracy, it transformed over the centuries into a lively bohemian hub. While it’s known today for its high-end dining and exclusive nightlife, the area is far from inaccessible, with plenty of off-beat, affordable attractions to discover if you know where to look – from hidden art spots to unexpected events. We’ve picked out 7 budget-friendly ways to spend your time in Soho.
Admire the art of photography
Tucked away in the district’s labyrinthine streets, The Photographers’ Gallery is a magnet for lovers of the visual arts – and with an admission fee of just £8, it won’t hit you hard in the pocket. First opened in 1971, this eye-catching space showcases a wide assortment of exhibitions, from cutting-edge contemporary work to thought-provoking retrospectives, all designed to give both emerging and established photographers a platform to showcase their talents. And for those seeking a caffeine-fuelled muse, the in-house coffee shop stands ready to serve.
16-18 Ramillies Street / Mon-Weds 10am-6pm Thurs-Fri 10am-8pm Sat 10am-6pm Sun 11am-6pm
Grab a cheap bite at a street market
Food stalls at Berwick Street Market (Photo: Paul Joseph)
In an area of the city awash with high-priced hipster joints and gourmet eateries, Berwick Street Market stands as a refreshing exception. A beloved local institution for decades, the sights, sounds and aromas of the market act draws large numbers of visitors who flock here to peruse and purchase its mix of quirky knick-knacks, fresh produce and eclectic food. For outsiders, it’s an ideal spot to simply wander and soak up the atmosphere, all while savouring mouth-watering fare at knock-down prices.
Berwick Street / Mon-Weds 8am-6pm Thurs-Sat 8am-6.30pm Closed Mon
Stollk along a colourful shopping street
Originally made famous in the 1960s as the heart of London’s mod culture, today Carnaby Street is lined with high-fashion boutiques. But as tempting as it is to splurge here, it’s also somewhere that’s fun to simply wander along, soaking up the kaleidoscope of colours and the achingly cool vibes. After all, window shopping and people watching doesn’t cost a penny – and the memories will probably last longer than any statement jacket before it goes out of fashion, anyway.
Catch some live jazz
Music fans queue to enter Ronnie Scott’s (Photo: Paul Joseph)
One of London’s most venerable music venues, Ronnie Scott’s has been drawing jazz lovers for decades. While it’s hardly cheap – with tickets starting at around £30 a show – it’s positively a steal when you compare it to the price of watching West End theatre, a high-profile concert, or a famous comedian. Set in a red-hued upstairs lounge, the intimate atmospheric makes it feel like you’ve been invited into a private show in someone’s lavish home. If you’re after some live music in London, this is about as affordable as it gets while still feeling like a special night out.
47 Frith Street / Weds-Sat 5.30pm-3am Sun 12pm-11pm Mon-Tues 5.30pm-11pm
Walk in the footsteps of a music icon
Another music-themed suggestion for an affordable Soho activity, the David Bowie walking tour is a must for any fan of the late rock icon. Starting in Brixton, where Bowie was born, the tour takes you on a journey through Soho, the area where he rose to fame and became a cultural force. As you stroll the streets, you’ll learn about his creative transformation, from his early gigs in smoky clubs to his rise as a musical and fashion trailblazer. Lasting around 90 minutes, the tour costs just £17 per person – a bargain for anyone wanting to walk in the footsteps of one of pop’s greatest innovators while getting to know Soho.
Kick back in a small green oasis
The peaceful environs of Soho Square Gardens (Photo: Paul Joseph)
The ideal antidote to the urban hubbub, Soho Square Gardens delivers a dose of tranquility to the senses. Surrounded on all sides by historic buildings, the small park is a popular spot for tourists seeking some much-needed respite, as well as office types enjoying an al fresco lunch break or post-work unwind before diving back into the lively pace of Soho’s streets. On sunny days, it’s particularly busy, with park-goers sprawling on the grass or lounging on the many benches flanking the square.
Unleash Your Inner Rockstar
Guitars for sale in a Denmark Street store (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Soho’s rock ‘n’ roll heartbeat, Denmark Street is sometimes referred to as the birthplace of British pop. Whatever you choose to call it, one thing’s for sure: this inconspicuous side street is a veritable Disney World for music fans. Dotted with music shops, visitors can pop in and browse vinyl, instruments and rare memorabilia, or even have a cheeky go yourself as a taster, helping ensure the street perpetually hums with history and the sounds of strumming guitars.
By Paul Joseph