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k I know you’re thinking London is never cheap. But you might be surprised by the bargains to be had. Head to the trendy East End which still has that artsy, up-and-coming vibe. Begin in Hoxton Square, the one time stronghold of BritArt. Have fun browsing the White Cube Gallery that always has a provocative big name artist on show and is free.

You can do a bit of window-shopping at his and her Start boutiques. Owner Brit Smith Start is constantly in the pages of Grazia and will welcome you in to try on a few designer numbers. If you want a bargain, head down Brick Lane with its lively Sunday market which many up and coming designers use as a test ground to sell their wares.

Treat yourselves to a smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel at the Brick Lane Beigel Bakery or head to one of the many value for money curry houses that have made this street so famous.

Just a walk away is Columbia Road flower market. A spectacle in itself, you can pick up a dozen red roses for less than anywhere in the country. After all that urban drama you might fancy something greener. Go for a stroll down Regent’s Canal or a walk through London Fields. And if you’re feeling energetic, swim at the heated London Fields Lido for under a fiver.

If you feel like staying for the night, get yourselves over to the uber trendy Hoxton Hotel on Great Eastern Street with reasonably priced designer rooms (especially on Sundays) and even the occasional room from £1 per night. You get a Pret breakfast hanging on your door in the morning and won’t find £4 Mars bars in the fridge.

You will find free wifi that actually works throughout the hotel and hotel bar and grill that you actually want to hang out in.