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Who says nothing comes for free anymore? Here are four things to do in London that won't cost you a penny.
HAIRCUT
Too skint to have your shaggy barnet sheared? Fear not: several London salons offer free haircuts in specified slots each week (check out Hari’s, Stuart Philips, Radio Hair Salon or Windle & Moodie). Granted, you’ll be a guinea pig for a scissor-wielding young apprentice – but crap-haired beggars can’t be choosers.
BOOZE AND CANAPES
Take the ‘Wedding Crashers’ model and apply it to other events – talks, conferences, gallery private views etc – and you have what is known as ‘ligging’. This very modern pastime can net you a sackful of booze and food any night of the week. Check out the day’s events on Eventbrite and away you blag.
COFFEE
Payday still an agonising week away? Don’t worry, there is another way to get your caffeine hit. Pret is famous for giving out free coffee to customers of its choosing (boost your chance with subtle flirting). And you can enjoy a free espresso at any Nespresso shop: they each have a coffee bar where you can try the different pods.
FANCY FOOD
Ahh, the old ‘free sample’ racket. The markets are an obvious choice, but why not rub shoulders with the elite in the food halls of Harrods and Fortnum & Mason? You don’t need to be an oligarch to feast on the delicious meat, cheese and other sumptuous samples.
By Dan Frost
Feeling frugal? Find more free things to do in London.