Luxuriously affordable and free experiences to enjoy in one of the most prestigious parts of London

While it has the reputation as being one of the Capital’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Knightsbridge riches are obtainable too. Representing locals, businesses and workers in the area, http://www.knightsbridgeldn.co.uk has complied an insider’s guide to savvy finds and favourite places – throwing an affordable light on the destination.

Start the Day with some Croissant Perfection at Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley and Espresso Expertise at Carpo

The darling of French patisserie, celebrated pastry chef Cédric Grolet has an enclave in the most beautiful of locations at The Berkeley hotel. Start the day with a take away pastry from the kitchen of croissant-making-master (his Instagram site really is eye-candy) from £7. While for that wake-up coffee shot, inhale some morning joy at Carpo Knightsbridge, where a single shot of espresso costs just £2.20.

Websites: https://www.the-berkeley.co.uk/restaurants-bars/cedric-grolet-at-the-berkeley/ and https://carpoworld.com/carpo-knightsbridge-3/

Luxe-for-Less Lunch at Harrods Food Hall and three-courses for a surprising snip at The Lanesborough Hotel

Drool for free at the delights in Harrod’s famous food hall, then either pick up a sandwich for around £5 or £6, feast on the oh-so-tasty rotisserie platter for around £10 or share some Lebanese favourites including the silkiest hummus, salads and fresh, warm flat breads – from £12 at the Levant Bakery. Alternatively, for some lunchtime fine-dining without the stuffiness, the two-course set menu served in the elegant Lanesborough Grill restaurant, is a surprisingly easy-on-the-bank balance option at just £38 per person.

Websites: https://www.harrods.com and https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/restaurants-bars/the-lanesborough-grill/

Arty Fix for Free

For a free arty fix, Knightsbridge’s latest offering, The ARX on Brompton Road, is gratis and open Fridays and Saturdays (11am to 6pm). This huge visionary space hosts a diverse revolving programme of multi-sensory exhibitions from up-and-coming contemporary artists to established names, including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. Onto Hyde Park, where art lovers can find more cost-free contemporary artistic inspiration at the Serpentine Gallery. Or, for art in nature seek out an array of exhibits from the largescale bronze Pan Statue , to The Huntress Fountain and the Boy and Dolphin (both located in The Rose Garden), and the Queen Caroline Memorial Urn. There is even a virtual ‘ghost’ installation of the Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations of 1851. Thanks to technology, it is now possible to walk inside the Crystal Palace, marvel at its true scale in an augmented reality experience and discover fascinating stories about what happened within it.

Websites: https://www.thearx.com; https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park

Try before you buy at Harrods with a My Wardrobe HQ designer rental from £6 per day

As an alternative to keepsake clothing, the My Wardrobe HQ pop-up in Harrods, means shoppers can support sustainable circular fashion by renting a special look from the Harrods edit at ridiculously low prices. Located in Contemporary and Denim on the fourth floor, from Needle & Thread, Ganni and Isabel Marant to Vampire’s Wife and Zimmerman, daily outfit rentals from £6 per day.

Website: https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/services/my-wardrobe-hq

Vintage Watches to Designer Pre-loves, where to sniff out haute couture on a budget For fashionistas seeking a keepsake individual look that is also kind to the planet, pre-loved is the way to go. Located within its well-heeled streets, Knightsbridge has some surprising secret finds. Theodore’s Collection on Brompton Road for example not only repairs watches, it is also home to rare collectables and pre-worn. And from pre-loved watches to pre-loved handbags, shoes, accessories and more, Sellier Knightsbridge at 6 Cheval Place is an exclusive one-stop-shop for serious designer classics. From rare Hermès bags and Balenciaga trainers to Victoria Beckham sunglasses and Gucci trousers (a snip at £120!), only the best of the best cast offs are on sale here. There is even a celebrity edit, with style selections from the likes of Georgia Toffolo and Kelly Piquet. A few doors along, at 16-22 Cheval Place, another one for luxe-bargain hunters is Pandora Dress Agency. Filled with gorgeous second-hand designer clothes, the shop also has sales.

Websites: https://www.sellierknightsbridge.com, https://www.pandoradressagency.com and https://www.theodorescollection.com

Shop the Sales and Tune into the Live Beauty Events

Keep an eye on the websites of Harrods and flagship stores like Alpha Tauri and Burberry for news of their sales – when savings of 50% or more can be enjoyed on designer brands. Plus, a must for beauty fans is the bi-annual spring and autumn Beauty Social at Harvey Nichols in which discounts, talks, masterclasses and giveaways are all part of the nominal ticket price.

Websites: https://www.harrods.com, https://www.alphatauri.com/en-gb/ https://www.uk.burberry.com/ and https://www.harveynichols.com

Hit the Bar for some History at the Egerton and Aperitivo Hour at Minas

Discover the history and origins of the Martini with a Martini masterclass at The Egerton Hotel – just £35 per person including making and sampling the perfect Martini, with seasonal canapés too. While for a cheekily priced aperitivo, Mina’s on nearby Motcomb Street offers aperitivo cocktails for just £9 every Monday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm.
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Websites: https://www.minaslondon.co.uk

https://egertonhousehotel.com/dining-and-drinks/martini-masterclass.