London is one of the world's most dynamic cities, and as an LFA student, you'll have endless opportunities to fuel your filmmaking aspirations in this exciting environment.
But we know that living in London can be expensive—so here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of it on a student budget.
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Get Discounted and Free Tickets to Film Events
London is a cinema lover’s dream, with film festivals, screenings, and industry events happening year-round.
Many of these are free or heavily discounted for students.
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BFI Southbank: The British Film Institute often offers student tickets at a discount, and they run free events, talks, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers. Sign up for their free membership for even more perks and opportunities.
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Prince Charles Cinema: Located in Leicester Square, this indie cinema offers concession (which counts as student memberships) for just £12.50 a year, with tickets as low as £4 for classic films and cult screenings. (Concession Memberships are available over the counter only).
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Barbican Cinema: If you're into international and indie films, the Barbican offers student tickets for around £6. Plus, if you’re under 25, you can join their "Young Barbican" scheme for more exclusive discounts on a wide range of arts events, not just films.
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Free Film Festivals: Throughout the year, keep an eye on free film festivals like the East End Film Festival or the London Korean Film Festival. These often feature free screenings, talks, and networking events.
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Student Discounts on Travel
London’s public transport system is a student’s best friend—but it can also make a considerable dent in your wallet if you're not careful.
Thankfully, there are a few ways to save:
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18+ Student Oyster Card: This magical pocket-sized card gets you 30% off travelcards and bus passes. Apply through the Transport for London (TfL) website as soon as possible.
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16-25 Railcard: If you're planning on exploring the UK beyond London, this railcard offers a third off train tickets nationwide. You can also link it to your Oyster card to get the same discount on off-peak tube journeys.
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Cycle around London: Santander Cycles (London's bike-sharing scheme) is an affordable way to travel around the city. It's £1.65 for 30 minutes, with cycling offering another great way to see more of the city.
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Make the Most of Student Deals on Food
Eating out in London can get pricey, but there are plenty of ways to grab a meal on a budget:
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UNiDAYS and Student Beans: These apps are your go-to for student discounts across London. You can find offers like 2-for-1 meals, 10-20% off at chain restaurants, and special deals on food delivery services.
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Totum Card: Another great option is the Totum card (formerly known as NUS Extra). It offers student discounts on groceries, restaurants, and even cinema tickets. You can often get 10-15% off your food bill at places like PizzaExpress, Zizzi, and Yo! Sushi.
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Cheap Eats: For those on a really tight budget, check out Time Out’s list of the best cheap eats in London. Places like Borough Market, Brick Lane, and Camden Market are filled with street food stalls where you can grab delicious meals for under £10.
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Enjoy London’s Free Cultural Attractions
London is home to some of the best museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, many of which are free to enter.
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Museums and Galleries: The British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum are just a few examples of free cultural gems in London. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your next project or simply want to unwind, these are perfect budget-friendly options. Some even offer late-night experiences with live music, stand-up comedy, workshops and more - all for free.
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Parks and Open Spaces: London’s parks are a great way to spend an afternoon without spending a penny. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Hampstead Heath are all stunning locations to relax, have a picnic, or even shoot a film project.
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Free Walking Tours: Get to know the city’s history with a free walking tour. Companies like Sandeman’s New Europe offer free tours that cover everything from London’s most iconic landmarks to quirky neighbourhood secrets. A great way to explore and learn without breaking the bank.
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Discounted Theatre and Shows
London’s West End might seem out of reach for students, but with a little planning, you can score discounted or even free tickets:
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TodayTix: This app offers last-minute tickets to West End shows, often at steep discounts. You can sometimes bag tickets for as low as £10.
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TKTS Booth in Leicester Square: Head to this booth for same-day discounts on theatre tickets. They offer some of the best seats for the lowest prices, but you’ll need to be flexible with your show choice.
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National Theatre: If you’re 16-25, you’ll get access to tickets for £10 or under, all year round, for selected performances at the National Theatre.
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Royal Shakespeare Company: Students can access the RSC 10 Tickets program, supported by TikTok, which offers affordable £10 tickets for selected performances.
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Shopping
Explore budget-friendly options for shopping in London, perfect for students seeking unique finds and affordable essentials for their film projects.
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Thrifting and Second-Hand Shopping: For affordable clothing and even props for your film projects, check out London’s charity shops or markets like Brick Lane, Camden Market, and Portobello Road. You’ll find unique pieces at a fraction of the cost.
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Carboot Sales: If you’re looking for bargains, try visiting car boot sales. They’re full of hidden treasures, whether it’s vintage clothes, film equipment, or quirky props for your next project.
Attend Free Workshops and Industry Events
London is full of opportunities for networking and learning outside the classroom. Many organisations and film festivals offer free or discounted workshops for students:
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Film London: As the capital’s film and media agency, Film London hosts free events, workshops, and networking opportunities. Make sure to follow their website for the latest industry news and opportunities.
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The LFA Filmmakers' Club: This is a free platform where students can find valuable opportunities, jobs, and industry connections. It's also a great way to network with professionals, collaborate on projects, and stay informed about the latest industry events.
London is an exciting city for film students, offering endless inspiration and opportunities. With some insider tips, you can enjoy it all without breaking the bank. From discounted film tickets and student deals to free cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to live large on a small budget in this incredible city.
Stay mindful of your spending, keep an eye out for student deals and immerse yourself in the best of London’s film scene.