If you’re anything like me, summer is a time when FOMO is in full swing. The sun is out (sometimes), the days are long, and it creates a feeling of pressure that you have to make the most of it. If you need inspiration for things to do in London this summer, but also want to keep it frugal, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re trying to get plans out of the group chat or need to entertain visiting family, Thameslink has you covered with some of the capital’s most exciting attractions. And the best bit? They all come with brilliant offers, including 2FOR1 deals, half-price entry, or 25% off - just for travelling by train.
From powerful art exhibitions to retro game shows and the best cocktails you’ve ever had, here are seven ideas for a day out in London that won’t break the bank.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
It’s every Millennial’s dream come true. Don the satin bomber jacket, explore themed zones, solve puzzles against the clock, and laugh until your sides hurt. Ideal for groups and perfect for birthdays - or just as a super fun way to spend a day. Yes, you absolutely will make a fool of yourself in the Aztec Zone.
Special offer: Get 50% off when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: 22-32 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EU
Nearest station: Farringdon
Monopoly Lifesized
Step into a giant, immersive version of the world’s most contentious board game. Roll enormous dice, solve escape-room style puzzles, and complete missions across one of four giant game boards. It’s fast‑paced, fun, and perfect for families, friends, or groups looking for a hilarious day out. Plus, stick around afterwards to hit The Top Hat Bar & Restaurant for Monopoly-themed cocktails and comfort food.
Special offer: Get 30% off when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7PS
Nearest station: Farringdon
Dennis Morris and Felicity Hammond at The Photographers Gallery
Two powerhouse exhibitions in one central London gallery. Dennis Morris is a British-Jamaican photographer renowned for capturing punk and reggae royalty with energy and heart. This landmark exhibition, Music + Life, celebrates his work with intimate portraits of Bob Marley and Sid Vicious like you’ve never seen them before. Upstairs, Felicity Hammond’s surreal 'V3: Model Collapse' installation explores our increasingly synthetic world in a totally immersive way. You’ll leave feeling inspired, and maybe a bit existential.
Special offer: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: 16-18 Ramillies Street, London W1F 7LW
Nearest station: Farringdon
Jenny Saville’s The Anatomy of Painting at the National Portrait Gallery
The contemporary English painter's first major solo exhibition in London is a revelation. Famed for her depictions of the human form, Saville’s show places her muscular, expressive style in conversation with historic works from the gallery’s own collection. It’s bold, it’s visceral, and it’s guaranteed to spark conversation over coffee afterwards.
Special offer: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: St Martin's Place, London WC2H 0HE
Nearest station: Farringdon
Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun at Tate Britain
These fascinating, under-celebrated British artists share the spotlight in a vivid exhibition. Edward Burra’s scenes pulse with modernist mischief - think jazz clubs and seedy street corners - while Ithell Colquhoun’s dreamlike surrealism blends mysticism with feminist power. Tate Britain’s riverside setting also makes a lovely spot for a post-exhibition picnic
Special offer: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG
Nearest station: London Victoria
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
This is one for the sweet-toothed dessert lovers. This cocktail bar near Farringdon serves up everything from creamy ‘Chocotinis’ to salted caramel espresso martinis. The vibe is fun yet chilled, and there’s even a boozy hot chocolate if the British summer isn’t playing ball. Book ahead - it gets busy.
Special offer: Get 25% off when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: 72 St John Street, London EC1M 4DT
Nearest station: Farringdon
Institute of Contemporary Arts: Connecting Thin Black Lines 1985-2025
This landmark exhibition charts 40 years of Black feminist art in the UK, building on the legacy of the ground breaking “The Thin Black Line” show from 1985. Expect powerful pieces, bold statements, and a necessary rethinking of the status quo. A must-see for anyone interested in the politics of art and identity.
Special offer: Get 2 adult tickets for the price of 1 when you travel with Thameslink. Just bring your train ticket and a printed voucher from Days Out Guide.
Address: The Mall, St. James's, London SW1Y 5AH
Nearest station: London Victoria