The spectre of recession is hanging over the UK economy and if that comes to fruition it will means tough times ahead for most businesses and many individuals, especially those in the entertainment and leisure industry.

Normally, when a recession bites luxuries such as trips to the theatre are the first casualties as consumers look to tighten their belts and cut out unnecessary spending. With the doom-mongers predicting that 2008 will be a bad year for the UK economy and 2009 will be even worse, on the face of it entertainment spending looks to worst hit. But, that might not tell the whole story. Traditionally, in times of real economic gloom and hardship people look to entertainment as a form of escapism from the harsh realities of everyday life.

Also, the flip side of an economic downturn is that for those with cash to spare there are usually some real bargains to be had as businesses cut their prices and introduce special offers. So, if theatres and retailers do start to feel the pinch throughout the year, then they will also be forced into offering great deals to attract customers - meaning that if you are in a position to be able to afford it then 2008 will be a great time to visit the capital to watch a West End show.

And because shops are already reporting reduced revenues during the run-up to Christmas last year, sales are already in full flow and look set to continue for some time, meaning there will be some great bargains to be had. Also, just about every hotel in Oxford Street and the rest of the West End will doubtless be offering discounted deals over the next few months as it is a traditionally slow time for visitors.

So, keep your eye open for great West End Theatre deals throughout the year; and when it comes to choosing something to watch there is a huge choice from popular musicals, great drama and comedy. There is bound to be something that will appeal to you and even if it's not from the mainstream West End selection the fringe theatre scene is alive and well in London and offers some great alternative productions.

Plus, staying for a weekend will leave you plenty of time to take in some sightseeing in the nation's Capital. The UK's most popular tourist attraction, the London Eye, is a stone's throw from the West End and just over the Thames from the historic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Or, perhaps you could visit Covent Garden and the great boutiques, market stalls and mainstream shops that proliferate in the area.

Regardless of whatever it is that would draw you to London, be assured that there will be some great deals to be had as the recession starts to bite.

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