It depends. Keep in mind that London is VERY expensive and it is hard to dodge some of those costs. The cheapest food I found in London was 2 pounds 50 ($5 US) and that was a hot dog. I spent 12 pounds ($24) on a meal of fish and chips & a beer in a bar. Again, LONDON IS EXPENSIVE. I didn’t buy a 6 or 12 pack, but usually individual beers would be 1-2 pounds each. The other stuff like the tours I’m not sure about. I walked everywhere.

Jesus. 5 dollars for a hot dog?!

I figure a train pass will be a must, especially since I’m several miles from the center of the city. Hopefully I can handle groceries for 10 pounds (though I don’t know if 10 pounds gets as much mileage as $20)…

Anyone know what a 6 pack of Heineken might cost?

When I travel, I NEVER eat out at restauraunts.  I pick up street food and shop at grovery stores and cook for myself.  If you don’t go to restaurants you can save a bundle.  Beer in the UK costs a lot too.  I think when I was there last it was about 3 pounds.

Restaurants are so expensive, I couldn’t believe it.  I was surprised that most groceries were only slightly more expensive than home.  Also, regarding your hostel being out of town — is there any way you can cancel your reservation and book something in central London?  I think you’d have a much better experience, never mind the increased travel costs you’ll be spending otherwise.

SSS is definitely right about staying in Central London. If you can, do it.

Oh, I don’t really mind being a few miles from the center…it will force me to see more of the city.

Stay in the centre if you can.  Seeing more of the city will mean seeing grotty places like Elephant and Castle, Dulwich and Willesdon to name but a very very few.  There are no sights, just grim surburbia (and I do mean grim).  You might as well just save money and spend a few nights in the Bronx.

i would budget 150 euro for 3 days in London

to save on food you could visit grocery stores for their already made stuff…..sandwiches, and more
you could find take out fish and chips
or try chinatown or indian food outside of the centre
most of the highlights of london in terms of sightseeing isn’t too expensive
the great museums are free
the guided tours of the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey are worth it

You can get into Westminster Abbey for free if you go to the evensong. You don’t get to walk around on a tour but you sit in the choir seats for the evensong service. 

As I already said, I’m fine staying out the city, and I’m not changing my reservations. That’s all there is to it.

I definitely appreciate the thought though…

Anyways, I like how the museums are free, and I’ve heard of various places were you can see free ‘shows’. I think one place was Speaker’s Corner, where random people perform and rant…that sounds interesting. I’ve also heard talk of places with free concerts during summer. I’m mostly into seeing things and absorbing my surroundings as opposed to doing all the touristy things. Considering that, and the free museums and such, I think I’m mainly worrying about food and transport.

BTW, Is it common practice in London to sit in a cafe (or pub) for a long time after you’ve ordered? I know you can do that in Paris all day long…similar customs in the UK?

Fair enough, where are you staying (what district), maybe I can suggest something.

You shouldn’t wait long for in cafes and in pubs you mostly order at the bar (meals included) and food is usually about 15-20 mins later.
If you end up waiting ages its because the place isn’t well run.