5 affordable dates for students in London
University is a very exciting time, not least for the number of new people you get to meet, but romancing any one of those people at this time in your life can be tricky. You want to impress the person you’re dating to show what they mean to you, but for most students on a budget, dress-to-impress date nights and swanky three-course meals just aren’t on the menu.
Fear not, though. Who said love has to cost a lot? Luckily for students in London, the city is the ideal destination for romance on a budget. As February is the month of love, we’ve compiled a list of great budget dates — from nearly-free films to the city at sunset, here are five ideas that are sure to help you woo your next date without spending too much.
1. Laugh your way to love at a comedy club
Image: thenudge.com
Feeling funny? Head out with your date to one of London’s many comedy clubs that offer free entry to see up-and-coming and even established comedians. Everyone enjoys a dose of stand up comedy, and they say laughter is the best medicine, so why not surprise your date with an intimate evening drinks and giggles? You can plan your next date at places like Angel Comedy in Islington or the Top Secret Comedy Club in Covent Garden, both offering free or very affordable entry.
2. Spark cultural conversations at an art gallery
Image: tate.org.uk
London is well-known for being a cultural hub, so it makes sense that galleries have become a massive part of this reputation. That means you have artsy venues aplenty for your next date. The city offers a wide array of art galleries, and, better yet, many do offer at least partial free entry. Fan favourites include the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, Whitechapel Gallery, the Photographers’ Gallery and Saatchi Gallery; all either free or having very affordable collections with tickets from around £2.50.
3. Shoot for the stars on the Emirates Air Line
Image: visitgreenwich.org.uk
London’s only cable car! Take your date up and over the hustle and bustle, looking out with panoramic views of the city. Perfect both at sunset and early in the morning, and taking only 10 minutes of your time. The cable cars are also located next to the O2 and the rest of Greenwich and are the perfect start or end to a longer date. The views from the Emirates Air Line exceed the very modest price of just £3.50 per ride.
4. Spend the night (not a fortune) at the movies
Image: gadgette.com
Old but gold, this is a classic date and for good reason. Watching something romantic or scary offers the perfect atmosphere for bonding, and the quietness of the cinema is a nice simple way into a first date without having to focus on what questions to ask. While ticket prices have risen in recent years, most cinemas offer student priced tickets. A few places in our capital also provide access for all at an absolute steal — like the Peckhamplex, which shows the latest movies for a very affordable £4.99 per ticket.
5. Soak up the sunset at the Sky Garden
Image: skygarden.london
Want to impress? Going to the Sky Garden for a date is one way to do “bougie” on a budget. Don’t get us wrong; it is a premium venue. However, access to the Sky Garden is free on weekdays from 10am to 6pm and at weekends from 11am to 9pm. So, if you wanted to pop up to soak up the views without heading to the restaurants or bars, that’s perfectly acceptable and perfectly affordable. The views alone are worth the trip. Make sure you book your ticket well in advance, though, as the spot always tends to have a waiting list, particularly at sunset.
This list is just the tip of the iceberg that is London. If you’re still stuck for great dates that are easy on your pocket, remember to ask your friends and those at your accommodation what they recommend — word of mouth goes a long way in a city this big. Good luck!
For more student tips and information, take a look through our Student Advice articles. Or, if you’re looking for your next accommodation in London, browse the quality flats available with Beaumont House.
