Planning a weekend trip in London? Here's 5 ideas you won't have had yourself

LONDON attraction offers abound; the city is full of things to see and do, and companies – like www.kelkooselect.co.uk – offering ways to do it a little more cheaply.

There is so much to do, from eating at Michelin star restaurants to seeing some of the most spectacular stage shows in the world, so that whether you are 16 or 46 you will be spoilt for choice when you visit London.

Whenever you explore a new city there are often things that guide books simply don’t tell you. Here are five ideas of how to make the most of England’s capital that you probably won’t have thought of.

Number 1: Take a photography tour of the city

If you are new to photography and want to learn how to take superb photos then enrol in a course; there are dozens to choose from. London Photo Tours offer day-long workshops to help you get to grips with your camera. The Southbank day tour is a popular choice as guests are invited to walk along the bank of the River Thames; tour prices start from around £85.

The Southbank is one of the most vibrant parts of the city with theatre, bookshops and photo opportunities at the skate park (not to mention the London Eye).

If that is a little too pricey then why not get your own camera, go with a friend and take photos of Westminster, St Pauls, or the entertainers that frequent this part of London.

Number 2: Look for bargains at Portobello Market

If you have an eye for fashion then this is the place to head to with bargains on every corner. From quirky jewellery to vintage jackets although it might take some rummaging you will find truly unique things to take home with you. Dating back to the 1800s, Portobello Market is perfect for anyone who has a penchant for antiques.

The stalls sell everything and anything, and experts come from all over to find pieces. Watch out if you are not an expert and make sure you don’t buy any replicas. The street stalls only operate on Saturdays but some of the antique shops are open in the week.

Number 3: A club in a toilet

It might sound a little bit bizarre but this actually exists in the heart of London. Public Life is a nightclub converted from a Victorian public toilet with a dance floor inside and some top rate DJs. Because it is so compact the venue has excellent acoustics and is very reasonably priced. Definitely worth a visit, after all how many times can you say you went clubbing in a public loo?

Number 4: A Hidden Museum

A new craze in London is underground museums and libraries; a good one to go and visit is The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising in the vibrant Notting Hill. The museum is like nothing else you will ever see, it is essentially a shrine to one man’s obsession with hoarding biscuit tins, washing powder boxes and royal wedding souvenirs; there are almost 10,000 examples of consumer goods. It is all presented beautifully in a cluttered time tunnel of cartons, bottles and toys; truly paying homage to the advertising industry. There is also a quirky tearoom to be found there, perfect for an afternoon snack. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 to 18.00 and Sunday from 11.00 to 17.00. Admission for adults costs £6.50.

Number 5: Free comedy

Yes, you heard right, comedy for free. Whether you consider this to be a good or a bad thing it is definitely worth capitalising on, as some of London’s best up and coming comics will be appearing on stage. At Weirdoes Comedy Night in the King’s Cross Social Club acts are encouraged to perform material that is thought to be too alternative for most comedy clubs. Audiences must come with an open mind.