✓ Lifelong Londoner ✓ ENO-trained Opera Critic ✓ Royal Academy Member ✓ 100+ London Guides & Reviews
Hello, I’m Maxine Morse, and I’ve been exploring London since I was being pulled along in a pram, gawping over the side at the Christmas windows in Harrods and Fortnum’s.
How my Fascination with London Started
Growing up in the 1960s, one of my greatest pleasures was buying a 50p Red Rover bus ticket and disappearing for the day to discover somewhere new. Long before there were blogs, smartphones or Google Maps, I’d spend hours wandering London’s museums, galleries, parks and hidden streets simply because I was curious to see what lay around the next corner.
My father was the Queen’s Chemist. He owned a pharmacy in Grosvenor Gardens, just behind Buckingham Palace, so central London was always part of everyday life. I spent my Saturdays in Hyde Park or at the museums, and we went for a service at Westminster Abbey on Sunday. London never felt like somewhere you visited on special occasions. It felt like home.
My Quest to Spend Less on London experiences
As the years passed, my fascination with London only grew. I’ve reviewed opera and theatre, explored hundreds of exhibitions, sought out remarkable restaurants and afternoon teas, and become slightly obsessed with uncovering experiences that feel luxurious without being expensive.
Ironically, Luxe on Less London began when I realised I was spending far too much money on days out. I challenged myself to see whether I could still enjoy everything I loved about London on just £5 a day.
To my surprise, I discovered that some of London’s greatest pleasures cost very little—or nothing at all. Free world-class art galleries, discounted theatre tickets, beautiful hidden gardens, invitation-only events, affordable afternoon teas and spectacular views became far more rewarding than simply throwing money at expensive attractions (now, if someone says something costs £25, I gasp!).
I always tell myself that anywhere you go, someone has got there for less than you and probably for free.
The £5 a Day London Challenge
The £5-a-day challenge completely changed how I experienced the city and became the inspiration for this website.
Today, Luxe on Less London is for anyone who believes that London doesn’t have to be expensive to be amazing. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, I aim to help you discover elegant experiences, hidden gems and smart ways to enjoy one of the world’s greatest cities without overspending.
Here, you can find out more about my £5 London challenge and how it changed my life.
