Just Touched Down in London Town

Nearly six years on, and I still find myself exploring the city like a newbie tourist! London truly has an abundance of sights and attractions that are simply waiting to be discovered and shared.

You don't have to worry about 'breaking the bank', with a whole array of free attractions at your disposal and plenty of offers to take advantage of... I've compiled a list of hidden treasures and tips that won't necessarily be listed in your standard city guide, but are certainly worth taking advantage of!

Free walking tour	Visit my blog "Did you say FREE???" for more information on the Sandemans free walking tour
2-for-1 offers	National Rail train ticket holders can enjoy 2FOR1 entry to over 150 top London attractions. With a train ticket as cheap as £2-£3, you can make use of these offers. You simply need to display a ticket that's valid on the day you want to visit, and the rest is history! Vouchers are printable off the website by clicking "claim offer".
£5 Afternoon Tea	In true English style, the Fan Museum in Greenwich has a lovely Orangery that serves afternoon teas on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3pm, for as little as £5. The museum is only a short walk from the Greenwich overground/DLR station.  Booking is advised to avoid disappointment. Admission to the museum itself is normally £4 pp, but you can take advantage of National Rail's 2-for-1 offer and save 50%.
Panoramic views	Royal Observatory Greenwich Park is home to the Royal Observatory on the top of the hill.  The majestic views of the Canary Wharf skyscrapers, the Millennium Dome and the City of London make the steep climb worth the while! Although admission to the observatory museum itself is no longer free, you can still take a picture at the Shepherd Clock outside the gate, while enjoying the views across London. Close to the Observatory, you'll also find the Pavilion Tea House if you fancy a bite to eat or refreshment. Westminster Cathedral - Campanile Bell Tower The cathedral's 273ft high bell tower offers a spectacular 360⁰ views across London. A trip up the tower costs £5 per adult, only a minimal amount when compared to the highly advertised London Eye with its ridiculously long queues.  The viewing gallery is accessible by elevator (200ft above street level). Access to the cathedral is free, although donations are of course welcome.
Celebrity-spotting	There's a great website that provides detailed listings of upcoming London film premieres, including cast and plot details - markmeets.com.  If you're willing to join the crowds before the red carpet arrivals, you stand a good chance of seeing celebrities in the flesh and taking a few good pics.
South Bank	In the heart of London, this Thames riverside stretch is perfect for an afternoon stroll. The area is buzzing with activities throughout the year - theatre, music, dance, exhibitions and many free events.
Free concerts	Royal Opera House Located in popular Covent Garden area, the Royal Opera House offers FREE lunchtime recitals/concerts. A proportion of tickets can be reserved online a few days before the concert date, and remaining tickets at the box office from 10am on the recital day. National Theatre Located along the Southbank, free music can be enjoyed at 5.45pm (Mon-Fri) and Saturdays (1pm and 5.45pm), varying from cool jazz to upbeat ethnic.

Along with the abundance of free galleries, museums and parks at your disposal, a trip to London is certainly one you'll enjoy!

Please feel free to share your own experiences and any other hidden London treasures that you've come across... HAPPY TRAVELS!