Avoid Fees in London: How to Save Money on Transport, Attractions, and Daily Costs

When you’re trying to avoid fees in London, it’s not about skipping the fun—it’s about knowing where the money actually goes. Many visitors and even locals overpay because they don’t realize how much is free or refundable. For example, TfL refund, a process to get money back for overcharged Tube or bus fares is simple, fast, and often ignored. You don’t need to be a finance expert—just know when and how to claim it. Same goes for the London Pass, a sightseeing pass that promises savings but often costs more than it gives back. Most people buy it thinking they’ll hit every attraction, but in reality, half the included sites are either free anyway or not worth the wait.

London’s biggest fee traps aren’t always obvious. You might think paying for a museum ticket is unavoidable, but the free attractions London, major cultural sites that charge no entry fee are everywhere. The British Museum, National Gallery, and National Portrait Gallery all let you walk in for free, with world-class collections that cost millions to maintain. Even the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College and the Roman amphitheatre ruins are free to explore. Then there’s transport: if you use an Oyster or contactless card, you’re capped daily, but if you accidentally touch in twice or get a delay, you’re owed money. TfL will refund you—no form needed, just a quick online check. And if you’re staying more than a few days, skip the tourist passes. Most people don’t need them. Instead, plan around free events, walking tours, and open-air markets like Southbank or Spitalfields, where you can eat, browse, and soak in the city without spending a penny.

It’s not about being cheap—it’s about being smart. You can see the Royal Observatory, catch a live jazz set in a pub, or snack on vegan donuts for under £5 without ever handing over a credit card. The city is full of hidden systems that work in your favor if you know how to use them. Whether it’s claiming a refund after a delayed train, picking up a free museum guide, or finding the cheapest vegan meal in Peckham, the tools are already there. Below, you’ll find real guides from locals who’ve cracked the code: how to get your money back from TfL, why the London Pass is rarely worth it, where to find free art and history, and how to eat well without overspending. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just the practical stuff that actually saves you cash.