Ever wondered what the Secret London team get up to when we’re not at our desks typing articles, filming in restaurants, or unearthing the capital’s breaking news? Well, wonder no more. Each month, we’ll give you exclusive access to us – not in a weird way – as we give our hot takes on the month ahead, and what we’re getting up to away from the desk.
January. It’s cold. We’re on a post-Christmas comedown. It’s described as the most ‘Monday’ of all the months. However, there are plenty of things to do in London in January to turn those frowns upside down. And if the purse strings are a little tight, you needn’t worry, as we’ve highlighted the affordable things to do in London that we’ll be checking out ourselves, as well as what we love about January.
What affordable things are the Secret London team getting up to in January 2024?
Katie Forge, Secret London writer
Katie loves January because there are many options for activities that don’t involve alcohol; she’s partaking in Dry January.
“I love going to the cinema, because I want to spend as much time indoors as I can in January. So, I’m going to the cinema tonight to watch Wonka.”
Make like Katie, and nab discounted Odeon tickets – starting at as little as £6.99.
Tash Snaith, Secret Media project manager
“I really like going to see comedy shows, if you can get cheap tickets. [Also] I like going to art galleries and museums in January, because they tend to be a bit quieter than the rest of the year.”
Bag stand-up comedy tickets for between £4.50 and £20pp here.
Jack Saddler, Secret London editor
Jack was pretty honest: his favourite thing about January is simply that it’s one month closer to summer.
“An affordable thing that I always like to do at any time is go to my favourite secondhand bookshop in London, which is Any Amount Of Books. It’s just round the road from the office. Get any cheap secondhand book really, sorts you right out for the next few days.”
Tamsin Salfrais, Senior Content Creator
I like January because it’s generally quieter, making it easier to get around in a city of eight million.
“So, I’m actually going to go back to Bubble Planet. It’s less than £20, and it’s like a massive adult soft play.”
Fleur Bailey, Community Manager
“[January] is a great time to reflect on the prior year and think about what you can change and adapt to take into 2024.”
“I think we’re blessed to have so many great walking routes in and around London. You can do them without spending a penny.”
Georgie Mortimer, Secret Media Executive Editor
Georgie likes the back-to-school feeling, and feels there’s something joyful about starting a new in January – particularly in the office, were we discuss what events we’ll be going to, and the new restaurants that’ll open this year.
“I’m taking my mum to the Monet immersive experience later in the month – she doesn’t know that yet, so surprise, Mum – but she really liked the Van Gogh experience, so I figured she’d probably like this one as well.”
Tom Forte, Secret London Video Producer
Tom’s favourite thing about January is going for chilly walks in the park, followed by a warm roast dinner. He also recommends some live music venues as some affordable things to do in the city this month.
“I love going to see live music around the city, and Night Tales Loft and Grow Hackney throw some live jazz jams. Really fun, really chill, and free entry.”