how do you classify a budget of 50 pounds a day for a person in the UK (accomodation not included)?

Well, compared to the $1,200-$1,300 total (air fare, local transportation, lodging, meals, theatre tickets, admissions, etc.) that dds and I each spent for the 9 days we explored London last March, your budget looks just fine.

I should clarify--I forgot to indicate that I was referring to $US.

So just to clarify...

Your £50/day should be able to cover your meals, transportation (trains/cabs/buses/car rental), sightseeing and any souvenirs, but not accommodation?

It seems more than adequate if it does not have to cover your flight to/from the UK. I don't usually spend that much per day on meals, fees, etc. in London. Of course, it will vary a lot of that is supposed to include a lot of long-distance travel. I don't ever make a budget per day that includes major transportation, though, only local.

I'm very sorry but unless you give us some idea of what you are planning to DO in the UK it is a grave disservice to you to say that this, or any other amount, is "enough." 50 pounds a day wouldn't BEGIN to cover my expenses in London when I visit there and I'm not including accommodations. I think you've answered your own question with the title of this post..you're right it IS "tight."

As Intrepid has pointed out, it all depends. You can get along quite nicely for under 50 pounds if you buy a tube pass, go to the many free museums, and eat some pre-packaged sandwiches and picnics. BUT if you want to attend the theatre, buy souvenirs, and eat in nice restaurants, you'll need more.

Doable in London and other big cities with some home work (knowing which museums are free, where the Wagamama's and other inexpensive chains are, doing some pic nics). Even with one or two plays you could manage by economising on other days.

Out in most parts of the countryside that would be an easy budget to meet. Pub meals and local buses stretch the budget a long ways . . . . .