There’s no denying that Britain’s capital, London, has a ton of opportunities and culture on offer, but let’s be real–it’s getting seriously expensive. For some people, this is worth it, but many Brits are getting priced out of the city. Thankfully, there are many other British cities that offer just as many benefits as London but for a fraction of the price, and this article will investigate some of the best.
Manchester
If you’ve not considered Manchester as an alternative to London, you clearly haven’t done your research. As The Guardian points out, this city is known for its music scene, as well as its sporting culture, while combining urban energy with northern hospitality in a perfect balance. The city also boasts impressive museums, a buzzing nightlife, and a thriving food scene, all at a more affordable price than London.
Birmingham
Next on our list of cheaper alternatives to London is Birmingham, Britain’s second-largest city. While London is diverse, Birmingham offers even more cultural diversity within a smaller space, leading to a melting pot of culture, shopping, dining experiences, and music. It’s a city that’s constantly evolving, with a lower cost of living that appeals to many, so it’s well worth considering.
Liverpool
While people tend to associate Liverpool with The Beatles, this coastal city has so much more on offer. For example, it has an excellent art scene and a welcoming atmosphere, and the accents are just gorgeous. Furthermore, the city’s waterfront was a UNESCO World Heritage site, which really isn’t surprising when you see how beautiful it is. So, if you love being by the sea, Liverpool is certainly a nicer (and far more affordable) option than London.
Leeds
Another British city you shouldn’t overlook if London is getting too expensive for your budget is Leeds. This Northern gem features a blend of historic architecture and modern attractions, making it an attractive option for those seeking city life without London’s price tag. It’s known for its shopping districts, including the Victoria Quarter, and a thriving nightlife. Leeds also boasts beautiful surrounding countryside, providing a balance between city and nature.
Bristol
If you have a bit of a hippy side, you can’t get much better than Bristol for expressing your creative spirit. The city is renowned for its independent shops, street art, and lively music scene, and its position near the coast and surrounding green spaces offer a refreshing change from the urban sprawl, all while remaining more budget-friendly than London.
Newcastle
Anyone considering moving up North to take advantage of the lower prices should definitely consider relocating from London to Newcastle, a city known for its friendly locals, Georgian architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a strong sense of community. The city’s quayside, cultural venues, and nearby coastline also provide plenty to enjoy despite its affordable living costs.
Edinburgh
Moving on to Scotland, Edinburgh’s stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and cultural festivals make it a compelling alternative to London. The city is steeped in history, with its castle, cobbled streets, and Arthur’s Seat offering a picturesque backdrop. Though property prices are higher than in some northern cities, it’s still a more economical option compared to London.
Glasgow
Even better than Edinburgh (at least in the eyes of most Scots) is Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. It’s often celebrated for its grittiness, vibrant music and arts scene, galleries, theaters, and innovative restaurants. However, the best part of living in Glasgow simply has to be its friendly locals and low prices. Don’t get us started on the weather, though.
Cardiff
If Wales is more your cup of tea, Cardiff, the Welsh capital, is a very affordable alternative to London. Sure, it’s got its historic attractions like Cardiff Castle, but the city is also home to an increasingly lively cultural scene, with events, sports, and music catering to various tastes. It’s an affordable, friendly city that offers a good quality of life, so why not pay Cardiff a visit and see for yourself?
Sheffield
Many Londoners relocate to the Midlands due to its close proximity to London and other major cities, and Sheffield is a popular choice for this. It’s a very green city, surrounded by the Peak District and filled with parks and woodland, although it’s also famous for its industrial heritage. Most importantly, it’s definitely an affordable option, especially considering how central it is within the country.
Nottingham
Another Midlands city worth considering when relocating from London is Nottingham, which offers a vibrant mix of culture, shopping, and nightlife for its residents. The city is known for its ties to Robin Hood and boasts a dynamic student population, contributing to its lively atmosphere. However, there’s no denying that this means it can often be a bit overwhelming to those looking to settle down and leave their student days behind.
Norwich
So many Brits overlook Norwich, but they really shouldn’t. Norwich has a ton of medieval charm that few British cities compare to, making it a highly unique city to explore. Its compact city center is filled with independent shops, historic buildings, and a thriving arts scene, yet all of this is provided alongside a far quieter pace compared to London, with a much lower cost of living, too.
Southampton
Down South, Southampton, a key port city, offers a mix of maritime history and modern development for any Londoners looking to escape the Big Smoke. The city’s docks, shopping centers, and green spaces provide a balanced urban environment. Furthermore, Southampton is known for offering a more relaxed and affordable alternative to London, especially appealing to those interested in coastal living.
Leicester
British cities don’t get much better than Leicester, which boasts a wonderfully diverse community, heaps of historical significance, and a particularly vibrant food scene. The city is known for its Roman and medieval history, as well as its more recent multicultural influences. Best of all, housing is very affordable, and the economy is strong, and it’s only an hour’s train away from London if you’re looking to commute.
Brighton
Even better than Leicester when it comes to commuting, Brighton is very close to London via train, making it excellent for benefitting from London without feeling trapped there. It’s a city famed for its bohemian vibe and seaside charm, attracting those seeking a lively, creative atmosphere. However, it must be said that the city has become heavily gentrified, so the prices are slowly creeping up to the level of London.
York
Finally, if you’re a history buff and want to live somewhere quintessentially British, York is a better option than London these days, and it’s far cheaper, too. It hosts plenty of charming streets, an iconic cathedral, and a plethora of green spaces, making it one of the most picturesque cities in the UK. It might be a long distance from London, but as long as you’re not planning to commute, this might be exactly what you’re looking for.