Beyond the Tourist Trail: cool, cheap things to do in London
Discover the hottest bars, markets and adventures that keep London on the cutting edge of cool and won’t break the bank
Cy Twombly, Gagosian Grosvenor Hill (8 October – 12 December)
The world’s most famous art dealer, Larry Gagosian, is opening a brand new gallery to showcase his spectacular line-up of artists, from Jeff Koons to Takashi Kurakami. Megastar artist Cy Twombly opens with a show of looping red abstract paintings. And it’s not just for the rich and famous looking to buy – London’s commercial galleries are a great way to see trailblazing artists for free.
Brixton Village market (open all day til late)
Find the best of London’s cheap eats all under one roof. Brixton’s indoor market is a feast of cultures and cuisines. This buzzy collection of restaurants, bars and shops is mecca for foodies across the city and whether you choose dim sum dumplings or sour-bread pizza, you’ll find a mouth-watering meal for under £10.
Dover Street Market, Mayfair
See the hottest hippest young things in their natural habitat. Mayfair’s Dover Street Market is a one-stop shop for the latest, cutting-edge trends. It may not be cheap, but this vast, treasure trove of up-and-coming designers oozes cool. Browse the clothes and accessories, then grab a coffee at the Rose Bakery on the top floor and people watch to your heart's content.
Homeslice, Soho & Fitzrovia
Finding a hearty, high quality meal that won’t break the bank in Central London is tricky. Thank god for hip new pizza joint Homeslice. It serves up no-frills finger-food full of innovative flavours from two laid-back restaurants right in the buzzing centre of town. Snack on a single slice or share a mega 20 inch pizza; wash it down with a few drinks and still come home with change from a £20 note.
