Bonding on a budget: Wholesome and cost effective activities to do with your new flatmates in London

As September rolls around once again and the orange leaves start to fall, it means one thing for students: Going back to uni. For freshers, it’s even more – a new flat, new people, and the start of independence (which can be quite daunting).

A good list of wholesome, cost-effective activities is exactly what you need to settle in, have fun and grow friendships naturally.

The good news? London doesn’t have to break the bank (unlike clubbing). So, here are the best budget-friendly ways to beat the awkward small talk stage and make your new flatmates feel like family.

Picnic in the park

Despite London being an urban city notorious for skyscrapers, busy roads, and commuter crowds, it also has peaceful and scenic green spaces that are perfect for a picnic. Regent’s, Hyde and Greenwich Park are classics – just grab a speaker, snacks and good company to unwind. You can keep it chill with sunset chats or go active with rounders and frisbee.

Karaoke night

Do you even really know your flatmates if you don’t know their go-to karaoke song? We all have one. From Katy Perry’s California Gurls to Sweet Caroline, it’s guaranteed to be a night of laughter, voice cracks and questionable dance moves. London has plenty of cheap karaoke bars for nights where drunk confidence takes over.

Better yet, have your own DIY karaoke night in your flat with YouTube for free. That way, you don’t have to spend a penny and can sing your heart out in the comfort of your own home with no one to judge your high notes.

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If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore one of London’s many iconic markets. From international food stalls (with free tasters) to vintage clothes, canal walks and incense stands, there’s something for everyone. A few of my favourites are Camden, Brick Lane and Borough as the vibes are unmatched.

Free museums and galleries

The only thing better than museums and galleries are free ones. In a cost-of-living crisis, these free experiences are lifesavers for bored students surviving on their maintenance loans. I remember my first time visiting the Tate Britain, and it was surreal to see such beautiful works of art close up, and to be able to digest every single detail. Tate Modern, The Natural History Museum and the V&A all make for a perfect Sunday flat trip.

Thrift shopping in Shoreditch

If there is one thing students can’t resist it’s shopping – bonus points if it’s vintage. Take your flatmates out to Shoreditch and make it a challenge: Find the weirdest thing under a fiver or dress like a tv character (Elena Gilbert, anyone?). Winner avoids taking the bins out for a week.

Southbank walk

Southbank is one of London’s liveliest areas, offering a perfect location for students to enjoy free entertainment from street performers. On your walk alongside the River Thames, don’t be surprised to encounter art and book stalls as well as free exhibitions and live music.

If you walk far enough, you’ll even be rewarded with remarkable views of London’s infamous landmarks, such as The London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben. Free, fun and a classic student day out.

Quiet nights in

Perhaps it’s raining outside, or you simply fancy a cosy night in. Not to worry, as you can bring the fun to your own flat. A movie night with snacks and blankets is the perfect way to enjoy the cinema without leaving the comfort of your flat. Or perhaps you’re feeling like Gordon Ramsay tonight and fancy cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

Spice things up with a Come Dine With Me week, where each flatmate prepares a three course meal with a theme each day. The flatmate with the highest score wins! If you have more of a sweet tooth, why not bake some cinnamon swirls or chocolate chip cookies?

Another guaranteed night of fun is to host a game night. Pick your poison: Monopoly meltdowns, feisty Uno, or a heated round of snap. My all-time favourite (and likely staple of your first year pres), is Ring of Fire. Prepare for silly rules, heated debates and, if you’re up for it, lots of alcohol to soothe the freshers’ week nerves.

For an extra wholesome touch, seasonal decorating is always a win. From carved pumpkins in October, to DIY paper snowflakes at Christmas. Decorating is cheap, fun, and makes your flat feel like home. You could even play some cheesy seasonal music in the background to really get the vibes going.

Whether you’re relaxing at the park, belting karaoke, or staying in for game night, London has so much fun to offer you and your flatmates without breaking the bank. Freshers’ week might be about the wild nights out, but it’s the cheap, wholesome moments that will make you bond and turn your flatmates into friends for life.