Stephen Moss has his packed lunch outside the National Theatre. Photograph: Christian Sinibaldi
"Thank God for churches," writes Stephen Moss in today's G2. He has penned a diary about his week-long marathon of arts-going on the cheap and in London, it seems, if classical music is your choice, then places of worship are your best bet for a spot of free culture.
Moss had a budget of £50, including food, drink and transport - a small fortune to spend on the luxury of arts and entertainment, you might think. But he soon found that in one of the most expensive cities in the world, it's easy to end up empty-handed in no time - especially when you need to drink a fast succession of costly bottled beers to get you through an unfunny comedy gig.
His week of subsisting on lukewarm tea and peanut butter sandwiches, consuming art rather than cooked meals, and trekking from venue to venue on weary feet at least left Stephen feeling inspired - if only with an idea for a diet book. But did he spend his pennies wisely, or did he unwittingly miss out on some of the best cultural bargains that the capital has to offer?
If you've mastered the art of enjoying culture on the cheap - at any location around the UK - do share your tips and best/worst experiences below.
