How To Have a Night Out in London On a Budget

How to have a night out in London on a budget (yes, it’s possible)

Looking for a night out that won’t break the bank? Whether you’re in the mood for some live music, quirky cocktails, or a side of comedy, London has plenty of budget-friendly spots that promise a great time without draining your wallet. Here’s a roundup of our top picks for an unforgettable evening on a budget.

1. The Social,  Fitzrovia

Located on Little Portland Street and just a stone’s throw from Oxford Circus, this disco dive is the perfect place to jam out on a budget! Hosting various events, from eccentric soul nights to electronic release parties, it has featured some iconic acts over the years—from The Chemical Brothers to Adele.

Different events require different fees, but generally, arriving before 9 pm will get you discounted entry. Tickets range from £5 to £15, depending on the event.

2. Night Jar, Shoreditch

When it comes to a cocktail night in London, many are used to splashing out. Night Jar changes this experience, promising budget-friendly cocktails partnered with edgy ambience. Set in a speakeasy-style setting, Night Jar offers expertly mixed drinks and live performances that can be enjoyed over great conversation. In terms of budgeting, Night Jar provides value for money with excellent ambience and expert cocktail creations.

3. Swingers Crazy Golf Club

Swingers, the crazy golf club in London is a great budget-friendly option for a fun night out, offering affordable entertainment with a twist. A round of crazy golf typically costs around £12 to £15, offering plenty of amusement without the hefty price tag. The venue’s lively atmosphere is complemented by a selection of reasonably priced street food from vendors like Patty & Bun and Breddos Tacos.

Offering a mix of affordable activities, tasty food, and drinks, Swingers ensures you can have a memorable night out without spending excessively, making it a top choice for budget-conscious Londoners and visitors alike.

4.  Angel Comedy Club

Free laughter is the best laughter, and Angel Comedy Club promises just that with its free performances that are guaranteed to entertain and amuse. Whether you are a stand-up comedy fanatic or simply looking for a bit of laughter at a bargain, Angel Comedy Club is the best place for budget laughs and top-notch comedy specials.

Self-coined as the home of stand-up comedy, Angel Comedy Club puts on more shows than any other club in the UK, and has even featured big names like Joe Lycett and Nish Kumar. Some acts hosted by more renowned comedians may require a small fee, but this depends on the night you choose to go and get your laughs!

5. Comedy In Your Eye, Camden Eye

When it comes to seasoned comedy talent, Comedy In Your Eye at The Camden Eye is your place. With a £5 to £10 entry fee, this comedy night in the heart of Camden offers great banter for your buck. The shows boast variety and value, with guests enjoying a line-up defined by its obscurity and quality.

Located in the beloved Camden Eye pub, right outside Camden Town tube station, this venue is no joke when it comes to accessibility. If you’re looking for low-key laughs from emerging talents, Comedy In Your Eye is the place to go. 

6. Soho Comedy Factory at The Blue Posts

This place has been recommended by the Evening Standard and the Radio Times, plus it offers great value for money. With comedy shows every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, this venue boasts the best prices for comedy sets that are even lower than their pints!

Hosting a variety of established comedy acts and newcomers, Soho Comedy Factory is the perfect place to enjoy laugh-out-loud performances in central London. Past comedians have also done the rounds at Live at the Apollo and have featured on Mock The Week.

7. The Castle, Farringdon

If you want that classic London pub feeling but don’t want the hefty prices, The Castle in Farringdon is your place. Despite being located in central London, it offers a wide selection of drinks that are great value for money.

If you’re feeling peckish, the menu keeps up with that traditional London vibe, offering delectable fish and chips or your classic pork pie. Based in Farringdon, this place is not immune to the after-work rush, so avoid evening times if you want a quieter atmosphere.

8. The Harp, Covent Garden

Whether you want a traditional cider or a perry sourced from around the country, The Harp provides pub-goers with budget brilliance. Craft beers are notoriously more expensive in the city, but The Harp doesn’t hold back on offering customers lower-priced excellence.

As far as value for money goes, this place has won numerous awards over the years, showcasing award-winning pours and prices! Located in Covent Garden, The Harp is slightly pricier than other pubs in London due to the area, but the atmosphere and the quality of drinks make The Harp worth the higher price.

9. The Miller, London Bridge

As purveyors of fine cider, The Miller is on a mission to provide those in the London Bridge area with unique drinks at great prices. Playing host to London’s biggest cider festival every year, these guys do not mess around when it comes to taste.

If you want cheap beer with a few laughs, head up to the improv comedy shows that also take place in the space. With its vast range of alcohol-free beers and cocktails, non-drinkers won’t miss out on the great value The Miller offers.

10. Ain’t Nothin But.. Blues Bar, Soho

Occasionally referred to as the best blues bar in London, this place will give your bank account nothing to feel blue about. In contrast with Soho’s steep prices, Ain’t Nothin But ensures fun can be had while going easy on the wallet.

The live music events at Ain’t Nothin But serve as the perfect entertainment as you sip on decently-priced pints and cocktails.

11. Corsica Studios, Elephant and Castle

When it comes to clubbing on a budget, knowing where to go in London can be tricky when watching your wallet. Corsica Studios prides itself on that classic-club feel while offering low entry fees at the door, ranging from £10 to £20, contrasting with the higher-priced events across the city.

Offering discounted tickets for early bird party-goers, Corsica Studios maintains the low-price theme inside with reasonable drink costs, providing a great backing track for a great night out.

12. The Book Club, Shoreditch

You’re guaranteed to find something that aligns with your budget at The Book Club. Whether it’s a quiz or live music you’re after, budget-hunters are spoilt for choice with this one.

Entry fees start at £5 to £10, contrasting with the more expensive locations in the Shoreditch area. Food after a night out is a must, and The Book Club provides foodies the chance to avoid the queues outside and get their budget bites inside!