If you want to get out and about this weekend, here’s five things you can get up to that won’t break the bank.
1. Shop at Westfield
Right next to Stratford railway station, Westfield Stratford City is a huge shopping mall that’s hard to miss. Choose from over 212 shops to browse through and 89 restaurants to eat at. And if you’re on a budget it doesn’t need to be expensive, walk around, grab a coffee and socialise. If you do decide to treat yourself to something new, don’t forget to claim your UNiDAYS or Student Beans discount.
2. Columbia Road Flower Market
Tired of your home looking dull? A plant or flower could be the perfect accessory to boost your mood and elevate your space. Spend your Sunday strolling down Columbia Road Flower Market and take in all the fresh scents of flowers and foliage. The market happens every Sunday between 8.00am – 3.00pm and if you turn up later in the day you can grab a bargain with some gorgeous arrangements for a budget-friendly price.
3. Victoria Park
This Grade II-listed park is home to festivals in summer and dazzling fireworks displays in the colder months. Stroll past two great lakes, stunning gardens, experience the Chinese pagoda island and grab a bite to eat at the Pavilion Café. You could even take a hot chocolate or coffee with you to make sure you stay cosy while you walk around.
4. ArcelorMittal Orbit
When you’re out and about on the Here East campus you may be wondering what the curly-wurly red scaffolding-looking building is in the background. Designed by artist Anish Kapoor, it is actually the world’s longest tunnel slide. It stands at 114.5m and to get to the top you can take a lift or if you’re up for the challenge you can go up the 455-step staircase (no thank you!). Once at the top, you can take in spectacular views of The Shard, St Paul’s and the Wembley arch. To top it all off, why not ride the slide back down? Prices start from £12 for students, to book click here.
5. Spitalfields City Farm
Get a taste of the countryside in Tower Hamlets at Spitalfields City Farm. Enjoy a walk around the farm, pick up something sentimental from the farm shop and relax in the gardens of this popular city farm. You can even pet Bayleaf the donkey, Twiglet the goat, Mario the Sebright cockerel and many more animals. You can also stop for refreshments at the Tea Hut for tea, coffee and locally, ethically sourced food and produce. Entry is free, but the charity does welcome and appreciate even small donations. Find out more here.
