Photo by Benjamin Davies, No attribution

London, being one of the busiest cities in Europe, has got a lot to offer to those who are visiting the British capital either for the first time or not.

It’s the place that radiates history and uniqueness from every building, and it always gives you the feeling that it would take an eternity to see and experience everything the city has to offer.

If you have got a couple of gaps to fill in on your to-do list, and if you have already taken a photo of the Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace, and had a filling meal of traditional fish and chips, take a look at the list below to find some lesser-known options.

Sky Garden

London is famous for its majestic views. Social media sites like Facebook and Instagram are full of panoramic photos of the London skyline, taken from such local landmarks as the famous London Eye or The Shard. But, one of the biggest barriers facing people wanting to take photos of these landmarks is that ticket prices are quite high.

This needn’t exclude people on a budget, though. Few people know that one of the towers almost directly opposite The Shard, on the other bank of the river offers same views right by Tower Bridge, but with free admission. To get inside the Walkie Talkie tower you must book online (which is free on the official website) and take proof of ID. After some security checks, the lift will take you to the top floor Sky Garden, where you can enjoy the unforgettable view of the skyline and the indoor gardens. There is also a restaurant if you want to take in the views while enjoying lunch.

Photo by Jamie Davies, No attribution

Hippodrome Casino

Unlike some other major cities, London is not famous for its casinos. However, it does have plenty of options for those looking to play a few games of blackjack or hands of poker.

One of the best options is the Hippodrome Casino; it is the largest in the UK open 24/7. It, of course, has all of the staple casino games including slots, roulette, and card games. But if you’re struggling to remember the values of each poker hand, there are plenty of other entertainment options.The Hippodrome features an award-winning steak house, 6 bars, and a theatre. The building itself also sets the Hippodrome apart from other venues in London, thanks to its beautiful Edwardian architectural features.

Emirates Air Line Cable Car

There are two ways to travel across the British capital, efficiently or by the scenic route. The London Underground often fits the bill of most efficient, helping you cover vast distances without being stuck in traffic.

However, being stuck underground stops you absorbing the atmosphere of daily life in London and seeing more of the city. It can also get pretty cramped during rush hour when you’re in the most central zones.

One of the best ways to see the city, while getting from A to B is the Emirates Air Line. This cable car is a means to get from one river bank to the other while allowing you to take plenty of photos for your Instagram. Cars run regularly from Greenwich to the Royal Docks. It is convenient too, as you can pay for your journey on your Oyster or contactless card.

Although London is known as one of the most expensive cities to visit, there are always ways to find lots of hidden gems that won’t cost you a fortune, and that will still bring you much joy in exploring London.