places to visit uk alone

Solo Female Travel in England, Scotland, and Wales — A UK Guide

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I have spent a LOT of time traveling alone in England, Scotland, and Wales. Much more than I originally intended. I went to Europe without a plan, ended up living for months at a time in two different cities in England, and used them as a base to explore the country.

I never thought the UK would become one of my most extensively traveled countries. At the time, I was more interested in warmer, sexier, more exotic travel destinations — the UK seemed so boring compared to Thailand or Italy or South Africa. And yet I completely fell under its spell.

Traveling in the UK is seen as an “easy” option. I can’t deny that — it’s one of the easiest possible countries for newbie travelers. But that doesn’t mean more experienced travelers can’t enjoy it. I think Britain is one of the most interesting countries I’ve visited! Speaking the local language and being in a similar culture allows you to get in deeper to the nuances that make the culture unique.

If you’re looking to travel solo in England, or Scotland, or Wales — or all three! — you’ve come to the right place. This guide lists everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to the UK?

First things first: let’s talk about what terms are best to use.  The UK, or Britain, consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Great Britain consists of England, Scotland, and Wales — not Northern Ireland. The British Isles include all of the UK plus Ireland. Oh, and don’t get me started on the Channel Islands, which are parts of some of these groups but not others…

For the ease of this post, I will be focusing solely on England, Scotland, and Wales. I’ll be rolling Northern Ireland into a future Ireland travel guide. There’s no political reasoning behind that; it’s purely for geographical reasons.

People travel to the UK because it’s a destination of which they already have an idea in their mind.  Everyone knows that London, at the very least, is foggy and has bridges. Scotland has kilts and bagpipes. All of the UK is covered in castles and villages. And they love tea and they have a queen.

Plenty of people grow up as Anglophiles, dreaming of one day experiencing the culture for themselves. People come to the UK for history. Quite a few North Americans come to the UK for ancestry-related reasons, to see their family roots. And some just want to learn what it’s like to drive on the left.

But I think the true charms of Britain involve getting to know the people and the culture on a deeper level. You can do that by spending time in a pub, or joining a meetup with lots of locals. You can absolutely get there by attending a festival! This will show you that Britain is far beyond its stereotypes.

There’s More to England than London!!!

This is my biggest UK travel tip of all. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve heard say they want to go to “London and Ireland” or “London and Scotland” while ignoring the rest of England. Or maybe, maybe they’ll add in a quick trip to Stonehenge before leaving English territory.

I used to be one of those people, actually. I met four friends from the north of England (which is culturally very different from the south of England) while traveling in Vietnam, they told me where they were from Chester and Oldham, I asked, “Oh, is that close to London?” and all four of them visibly cringed.

Believe me, there is SO much more to England than London. If you come to England and only visit London, you’re missing out on some truly wonderful destinations. See more below on exactly where to go in England.

Is Britain Good for First-Time Solo Female Travelers?

Absolutely — England, Scotland, and Wales are some of the BEST destinations for first-time solo female travelers.  English is the local language, there’s excellent travel infrastructure, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of travelers doing the same thing you are.

If you’ve never traveled solo in your life, England, Scotland, or Wales would be a terrific choice. If you’ve never been to Europe in your life, any of the three would be a great choice, too, with or without a partner.

Beyond that, locals in the UK — particularly in London and Edinburgh — are used to dealing with less experienced travelers and know how to cater to their needs. That said, new travelers don’t get scammed or targeted here nearly as much as in Paris or Barcelona. For that reason, if you’re set on Paris or Barcelona for your first solo trip ever, I recommend spending a few days in London or Edinburgh first to get your solo travel bearings in an easy and safe place.

Is Britain Good for Experienced Solo Female Travelers?

Hell yes, Britain is good for experienced solo female travelers! It might seem “too easy” if you’re used to traveling in the developing world, but sometimes you’re in the mood for somewhere a bit easier. And there are plenty of places to get off the beaten path.

And that doesn’t mean going into rural areas — it could mean visiting a fun but not-as-famous city like Glasgow or Leeds. It could mean renting a car and stopping at every adorable pub you see in one particular region. It could mean doing an extended hike like the Dales Way or Hadrian’s Wall Path. It could mean climbing the Three Peaks — Ben Nevis in Scotland, Mt. Scafell in England, and Mount Snowden in Wales (some crazy people do all three within 24 hours!).

As someone who has already traveled extensively in the UK, here are the places still high on my list: Cornwall, the Scilly Islands, Bristol, Brighton, and Newcastle in England; the Outer Hebrides, Orkney Islands, and St. Kilda in Scotland; and Anglesey and much more of the Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales.

Consider traveling to destinations that are popular getaways for Brits but fairly unknown to foreigners. For people who live further south, Cornwall and Devon are popular coastal destinations. When I was based in Chester, lots of people went for weekends away in the Lake District (which is so beautiful!) or the coast of Wales.

Scenes from England’s Lake District

Getting Around the UK as a Solo Traveler

There are lots of ways to travel around the UK. If you want to travel solely on public transportation, it’s possible! But if you want maximum flexibility in rural areas, a car is your best option.

My favorite way to travel in the UK is by train. The train system extends throughout the country and trains run fast and often. Trains are extremely comfortable and in a country as small as the UK it doesn’t take super-long to cross the country — you can even cover super-long journeys like from Inverness to Penzance in just 15 hours. For long distances, however, it can sometimes be cheaper to take a budget flight.

Traveling by flight is fast and efficient.  Sometimes it can be cheaper than trains. It does make more of an environmental impact, so consider traveling by train if you can — especially since when you add time traveling to and waiting at the airport, it can be a faster door-to-door journey by train. If you’re using miles, it usually costs the same to fly to or from anywhere in the UK as it would from London.

Traveling by coach is slower and cheaper. Brits refer to long-distance buses as coaches and the biggest network is National Express. These coaches are very comfortable and cost less than trains. Some other lines like Megabus have cheaper but less comfortable coaches.

Ferries exist as well. There are short ferries to nearby islands, especially island-dotted Scotland, and longer ferries for further afield journeys. I took the overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Shetland — a wild, tumultuous journey across the North Sea but a lot of fun!

Renting a car is possible.  This is especially useful if you want to explore a remote, beautiful region like the Cornwall coast, the Cotswolds, or the North Coast 500 drive in Scotland. Keep in mind that they drive on the left in the UK, cars tend to be manual (make sure you specify renting an automatic car if you need one), and the cars are much smaller than their American counterparts.

Travel and Safety Tips for England, Scotland, and Wales

Britain isn’t the kind of place where you need lots of detailed, unusual safety tips — it’s an easy place to travel and crime is fairly low. You can stick to the usual travel safety tips you’d follow anywhere else, but I thought I’d include a few things I’ve learned about British culture. It’s much more complicated and nuanced than “They drink tea!” and “They have a queen!”

So much of British culture is understanding how Brits interact with each other. British people tend to be a lot more pulled in than Americans. They’re far less likely to strike up conversations with strangers. They tend to want to avoid confrontation and awkward conversations at all costs, and will often be polite to people for the sake of keeping the peace.

How to explain this? Here are some Very British Problems : “Asking to sample an ale, disliking it and ordering a whole pint so as not to waste the barman’s time.” “Not quite catching someone’s name, meaning you can never speak to them again.” “Assuring your hairdresser the temperature is fine, despite a strong suspicion your scalp is beginning to melt.”

English people tend to be the quietest; Scottish people tend to be warmer and more welcoming.

“You all right?” doesn’t mean “What’s wrong?” — it means “How are you?” Embarrassingly, it took me six months of replying, “Yeah, why?” to my British friends before I realized this. Now you know!

Brits tend to mock people they love and be icily polite to people they hate. It took me a long time to realize that the people who often made fun of me were doing so out of great affection. I wish I had realized that at the time.

Brits often sign emails or texts with an X, even if it’s a platonic conversation. Don’t read too much into this (as I may have once or twice). They’re not saying that they want to kiss you or they have a crush on you; it’s just a common thing to do.

Brits drive on the left, walk on the left, and stand on the left. Look both ways when crossing the street! Most crosswalks say LOOK LEFT, especially in London, or otherwise show you where to look.

Know that some British terms are different from American English. Three that are particularly important: Pissed means drunk, not angry; pants means underwear and trousers is what you’d say for pants; and fanny means vagina, not butt.

“Shouting” beers can lead to drinking too much. In Britain, it’s common to take turns paying for each other’s drinks — one person will pay for a round for the whole table, then another person will buy the next round. If you’re drinking with men or heavy drinkers, you may feel pressured to keep pace to avoid any awkward moments (see, that’s British culture seeping into you!) , and this is a fast way to get drunker than you want to. Four beers may be fine for a larger guy, but that can be a LOT for a woman, especially if they’re strong beers.

The best thing to do is to tell the group early that you only want to have two drinks that night. That way people won’t think you’re trying to weasel your way out of paying for others.

Some of London’s airports are far outside the city. You could argue that all of them are far out except for London City — and London City is usually an expensive place to fly into (but easy to do with points!). Luton and Stansted are especially far out. Keep this in mind if you have an early departing flight, since trains often won’t run early enough and you’ll need to book a cab.

I encourage you not to switch airports on a layover in London if you can help it — it adds a ton of transfer time and hassle, especially if you hit traffic. Paying a bit more to have a layover in the same airport is worth the money.

Scotland has its own currency. The Scottish pound has the same value as the British pound and they use both currencies interchangeably in Scotland. Try to use it up before you leave Scotland, however, because places outside Scotland don’t like to accept it, even though it’s legal tender.

Get a SIM card.  SIM cards are good for helping you navigate your way around, as well as summoning Ubers. There are lots of different companies in Britain, and they are all much cheaper than US plans. Three, GiffGaff, O2, and TescoMobile are some of the companies that do short-term SIM cards with data.

SIM card coverage is spotty on highways throughout the UK and in rural areas, especially rural Scotland. Don’t rely on a SIM card to get you around the Scottish Highlands.

Be careful about your drinking.  Drink less than you ordinarily would at home — two drinks is a good limit. Only take drinks from bartenders, never take a drink from a stranger, and always keep it with you and keep an eye on it.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.  If you carry a purse, hold it close to you. I recommend a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. I recommend many purses in this post.  Never let it hang behind you — always keep it in a place where you can see it, and keep your hand on it if you’re in a crowd.

If you carry a wallet without a purse, don’t keep it in your back pocket. This is obvious to thieves and they will grab it and run.

If you use a small backpack, lock it. I use a Pacsafe backpack where you can lock the compartments shut.

Never leave your bags anywhere unattended.  Take them with you. While in cities and touristy areas in the UK, if you’re keeping your bag under the table or otherwise out of sight, keep it between your feet or hook the strap around one of the chair legs.

Keep your valuables locked up in your accommodation and only take with you what you need that day.  I do this with my Pacsafe Travelsafe and I consider it the most important thing I pack . Keep an extra debit card and at least $100 hidden in obscure parts of your luggage.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

If someone robs you, GIVE THEM WHAT THEY WANT.  Things can be replaced. Nothing is worth your life.

Don’t carry tons of cash around with you. You can use credit cards almost everywhere in the UK, and carrying lots of cash leaves you vulnerable to theft. Don’t be the traveler who loses her wallet and the $500 in it.

Only use ATMs at banks if possible.  If your card gets eaten, it’s a lot easier to retrieve it from a real bank’s ATM. If you can’t find a bank and it’s at night, use an ATM indoors, in a vestibule or in a shopping mall.

Get a digital guidebook and keep it on your phone.  Even today, I always keep a guidebook PDF on my phone — it’s great for calculating approximate time of journeys, knowing what days places are closed, and it lists medical centers you should go to in case of emergency. I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet guidebooks — get the digital version of Lonely Planet Great Britain .

Spend extra money on staying safe.  If you’re not comfortable walking home at night, spend money on an Uber. If you’re hesitant on spending money on a not-as-nice-looking hostel, pay for a nicer place. It’s worth the peace of mind. Don’t pinch pennies on your safety.

Most importantly, you have no obligation to be nice to anyone. Women often feel the need to be nice and please people at all costs. You don’t have to anywhere — especially so in the UK, where acquiescing to other people’s needs is part of the culture. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, just leave. Trust me — you won’t be the rudest person they meet that day. And so what if you were? You’re never going to see them again.

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

How will Brexit affect travel?

As of the time of the latest update (December 2019), there isn’t a clear answer on what the next step is for Brexit.  That said, as a foreigner visiting the UK, Brexit is unlikely to affect your travels in any meaningful way other than a slightly better exchange rate.

Britain has always been located outside the Schengen Area of Europe, which means that flights to Europe are treated as international flights, not domestic. Nothing about Brexit will change this.

One major Brexit factor is that the currently open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland may close in the future. When anything is announced about this, I will include an update here.

The Best Travel Experiences in the UK

Walking in the steps of the Beatles in Liverpool.  Take a bus ride to Strawberry Fields, see a show at the Cavern Club, check out the Beatles Experience. You can even visit John’s and Paul’s houses! Seeing Liverpool through their eyes gives you a special context that you’ll always remember when you listen to them in the future.

Treating yourself to high tea at one of the hotels in London.  Afternoon tea can be a pleasure anywhere in the country, but high tea is fancy, sophisticated, and refined. Be sure to dress up if you go to one of the luxury hotels. For something wacky, choose a high tea with an unusual theme!

Getting into British food. British food is SO much better than its reputation! My favorite way to experience the food is to have a farm-to-table meal and glass of wine in a high-end pub. Other faves? Arbroath smokies (smoked whole fish for breakfast) in Scotland, fresh Welsh cakes off the griddle in Wales, and tucking into a perfect sticky toffee pudding in England.

Geeking out at the Harry Potter locations. At the very least, go to King’s Cross Station in London and pose at Platform 9 3/4, where you can be photographed pushing a disappearing luggage cart into the wall! If you’re an even bigger fan, head to more obscure sites like Alnwick Castle, where Harry took his first Quidditch lesson, and Christ Church College in Oxford, which was used for some Hogwarts scenes.

Catching shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This theater festival takes place every August and you’ll find hundreds of shows taking place all over the city! From stand-up comedy to dark dramas to musicals involving taxidermied animals, this festival has something for everyone. And they’re all cheap — some are free.

Throwing yourself off cliffs in North Wales. Ever heard of coasteering? This adventure sport was invented in Wales! Clad in a wetsuit and helmet, you climb up boulders along the coast, then throw yourself into the cold water below. Worth the chill for the adrenaline rush.

Tasting Britain’s handcrafted spirits. Britain is in the middle of a spirit revolution! Most people start with whiskey tasting in Scotland, from the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh to visiting distilleries on different islands. Brits are making interesting gin, too! I went on a gin-hopping trip in England and had a wonderful time at all the distilleries.

Dancing all night long with torch-bearing vikings in Shetland. Up Helly Aa is not only the best festival I’ve attended, it’s one of the best things I’ve done on my travels, period. If you can get yourself to this festival (and into an after-party), it’s something you will remember FOREVER.

Up Helly Aa in Shetland: Possibly My Best Adventure Yet!

Where to Go in England on a Solo Trip

London is great — but it’s not all England has to offer. Remember that. Also, keep in mind that northern England is culturally very different from southern England — it’s nice to experience both regions within your trip.

Okay, start in London . Spend a lot of time in London, if you will. It truly is one of the world’s greatest cities with outstanding free museums, incredible food and markets, and perhaps one of the most international communities on the planet.

Liverpool. England has so many interesting cities that aren’t named London, and Liverpool is my favorite, with cool architecture, delicious gin, nice museums, and Beatlemania. Some other big cities are Bristol, Newcastle, Manchester, and Leeds.

The Lake District.  This national park in northwest England is home to outstanding scenery, all lush and green. While England’s natural areas don’t get the attention they deserve, If you want to visit more scenic areas, consider exploring the coastline and gorges of  Cornwell and Devon .

Brighton. This colorful seaside city is just one hour from London, making it an easy day trip and fun getaway. For other easy day trips from London, check out Oxford, Cambridge, and Stonehenge (the latter easily paired with Bath).

York. This small city in Yorkshire is so adorable that it’s shopping street, The Shambles, served as inspiration for Harry Potter! Come to York to get lost in the storybook-like streets and hear the choir sing in the York Minster. If you like picture-perfect towns, consider exploring Chester, Bath, and the Cotswolds .

Scenes from the Cotswolds

Where to go in Scotland on a Solo Trip

I won’t lie — Scotland is my favorite part of Britain, and it’s hard not to fall under its spell. You could easily spend months in Scotland and see something new every day. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Edinburgh. One of my favorite cities on the planet. It’s like a fairy tale come to life, complete with a castle on a hill. It’s incredibly beautiful and endlessly interesting, and people are so nice. It’s very Scottish while having a good international feel at the same time.

The Scottish Highlands. Most people who visit Scotland have the Highlands in mind, and for good reason. Be sure to check out Glencoe, Culloden Battlefield, Loch Ness, and Loch Lomond .

Isle of Skye. This island may technically be part of the Scottish Highlands, but it deserves its own spot for its beauty and sights, like Kilt Rock’s waterfall. If you love islands, some other lovely ones are Islay, Mull, Arran, and Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides .

Dunnottar Castle. This half-ruined castle is my favorite castle in Scotland — such a gorgeous place to photograph. Some other great castles are Urqhardt Castle, Stirling Castle, and of course Edinburgh Castle .

Glasgow. This city doesn’t get as much love as Edinburgh, and the accent might be incomprehensible, but it’s a really wonderful place to visit — especially if you’re fed up with tourist crowds. Glasgow has excellent museums, shops, and food. Another nice city to check out is St. Andrews , where William and Kate went to university and fell in love!

The Shetland Islands.  Known locally known as Shetland, these stunning, carved out islands are located between Scotland and Norway. Shetlanders are very independent, claiming little allegiance to Scotland, and they throw two of UK’s best festivals (Up Helly Aa and the Shetland Folk Festival). If you’re heading this far north, you might as well check out the Orkney Islands with their interesting landscapes and archaeological sites.

My Love Affair with Scotland

Where to Go on a Solo Trip to Wales

If you’re going to Wales, you’ll likely want to focus on either the north or the south, unless you’re planning a much longer trip to Wales. Both of these areas have a lot to offer — it’s all about what you’re into!

Snowdonia National Park. This gem of North Wales is one of the best national parks in all of Britain, and it’s full of endless beauty. If you’re here, you should consider climbing Mount Snowden — it’s very doable if you’re at an average level of fitness!

Conwy . This northern town is home to some UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins, like Conwy Castle, and the smallest house in Britain. If you’re here, be sure to check out Llangollen   or Betws-y-Coed as well.

Anglesey . This island off the coast of northwest Wales is a peaceful place known for its beaches and ruins, as well as the longest place name in the world, Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch . William and Kate made their first home here.

Cardiff. This city in the south is pretty, green a good launching base for exploring the south of Wales. Be sure to take a food tour, take a ferry to the waterfront, and eat all the Welsh cakes.

Hay-on-Wye. This small town is my favorite place in Wales — it’s filled with used bookstores and home to a literary festival! Another nice small town to visit in the south of Wales is  Laugherne , home of Dylan Thomas.

The Pembrokeshire Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK — you’ll be shocked at its beauty. Places like Tenby could be straight out of the Mediterranean. Some other places to check out in Pembrokeshire include Pwll Deri, Fishguard, and Carmarthern .

A Dreamy Trip to South Wales

How to Meet People While Traveling in the UK

If you’re looking to meet people in the UK, you can definitely do that!  Britain may have a standoffish culture in general, but when people loosen up, they become very friendly. Plus, the whole country is full of travelers looking for people to meet. Here are some ways to meet people:

Consider staying at a social hostel.  There are tons of great hostels all over the UK, from country hideaways in rural Wales to modern chains in London. Many of these hostels offer private rooms, if dorms aren’t your thing, and quite a few of them offer tours and other activities. If there is a bar in the hostel, it will be a very social place.

Join tours.  Tours are a great way to meet new people! Whether you’re doing a food tour through London’s East End or learning about York’s spookiest spirits on a ghost tour , you’ll meet people excited to explore the local region.

Look for Couchsurfing meetup events throughout the UK. Couchsurfing isn’t just for free accommodation — they also put on meetup events where everyone is welcome. Many major cities have weekly meetups, and they always draw a great crowd.

Join a meetup on  Meetup.com . Whether you’re into travel, running, movies, board games, or just want to meet a group of nice people, there’s a Meetup for that.

Put out feelers on social media. Often a friend of yours will have a cousin or friend living somewhere in the UK who will offer to meet you for coffee, just so you know someone. Take advantage of this if you can.

Tinder. If you’re looking to date or hook up, have fun! If you’ve always wanted to date a guy or girl with a swoon-worthy accent, this is your chance!

What to Wear in England, Scotland, and Wales

Britain is one place where you don’t need to be super-conscious of how you pack.  You don’t need to dress conservatively for any reason; you don’t need dress a level above usual like you would in Italy. If you need something, just go buy something. That said, here are some tips for what to wear in Britain and how to pack:

British women tend to dress up more. I found this was especially true in England, even in smaller towns. On many occasions I would get invited to a bar, would put on jeans and a nice top, and would find my friends wearing dresses, heels, and heavy makeup. This is just something to keep in mind. It’s a bit more relaxed in Scotland and Wales, especially in rural areas.

Be prepared for rain.  The UK is well-known for its mild, overcast, often rainy weather. You should absolutely have an umbrella at all times, as weather can change on a dime here. Lifetek makes a great, strong travel umbrella.

Sunglasses. I forgot to bring sunglasses on my first trip to Scotland, it turned out to be unusually hot and sunny, and I was shocked that I couldn’t find any sunglasses to purchase from H&M or Zara! It’s not sunny as often here, so stores don’t keep sunglasses in stock as much.

Comfortable shoes. I have bad arches so almost everything I own is from  The Walking Company . Depending on where you go in the UK, I highly recommend their orthotic flip-flops (yes, orthotic flip-flops exist and they are a GAME-CHANGER!), black ABEO flats (this brand is outstanding and they have excellent arch support) or a pair of boots . If you plan on hiking, you’ll want to bring hiking boots.

Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf.  These beautiful scarves are designed and sewn by my friend and have a hidden passport pocket in them that no thief will know exists. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they are so good at keeping your valuables hidden.

Crossbody purse.  I recommend using a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. This is the kind of purse that is much harder for thieves to snatch.  I recommend many purses in this post.

Light jacket.  You’ll need a heavy jacket for the winter months, but for spring, fall, and summer, a light jacket will do well. I found my little leather moto jacket to be ideal for Britain’s warmer months — warm enough when paired with a scarf. For cooler temperatures, I preferred my Uniqlo down puffer jacket . But if you’re going to Scotland in the winter, you’ll want a full-on heavy winter coat.

If you need to buy clothes, you have plenty of options. If your luggage is lost and you need to buy some new things, check out Primark or H&M for cheap clothes. Marks & Spencer is a few rungs up — nicer and a bit pricier.

When my luggage was lost on my trip to Inverness a few years ago, I bought a few things from Marks & Spencer to hold me over — including a dress for a formal event I had to attend. It worked out great and I still wear my M&S shirt all the time!

Travel Insurance for the UK

Travel insurance is vital for trips to Britain — or any other country. If you get appendicitis while in Edinburgh or break your ankle while hiking up Mount Snowden, travel insurance will help you in your time of need and protect you from financial ruin. If you need to be flown home, it could save you well over $100,000.

And it’s not just about injury. If you get robbed, travel insurance can refund you for what was stolen from you. If your flights are cancelled due to weather, travel insurance can refund you. And if you have a death in the family and need to get home immediately, travel insurance will help you get home fast.  I use and recommend World Nomads travel insurance for trips to the UK.

Britain is waiting for you!

No matter where you end up traveling, you are going to LOVE the UK. It’s beautiful and peculiar, it’s amusing and spectacular. And yeah, they drink tea and they have a queen, but by now you know it’s MUCH more than that.

Go have the time of your life! Then get back and tell me all about it.

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ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in the UK | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Oh, the lands of endless rain and dark humour. Honey, I’m home – and I’m alone.

As far back as history dates, the UK has attracted all kinds of lonely travellers to its shores. Some get to London and call it a day. But those who venture out into the wilderness are greeted with an unlikely, magnificent adventure.

As a British native, my solo female travels started in the UK, with a train ticket and a place on someone’s couch. And it hasn’t changed much in the last 10 years.

Between England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, you find a vastly varied culture, deeply ingrained history, rolling countryside, and maybe a bit of a drinking problem too. And only a handful of lucky travellers really get to delve into it. 

Though the transport systems only get you so far and solo travel in the UK isn’t always a cheap affair. With no one to split the costs with, and the hostel scene being somewhat non-existent, costs can rack up fast.

But that’s why I’m here, love. I’m going to give YOU some of my very best, heartfelt advice – for a country I know a little too well. I’ll share some of my favourite places to travel on my tod, the best things to do, and some top solo travel tips for the UK.

Grab your umbrella, you’ll probably need it.

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Things to Do in the UK When Travelling Solo 

Best solo destinations in the uk, the best travel apps for solo travel in the uk , safety tips for solo travellers in the uk , tips for solo travelling in the uk, final thoughts on solo travel in the uk.

Let’s start at the very beginning. What should you be doing when you’re travelling the UK solo? Easy peasy…

1. Go to the Pub

Obviously, it’s the first thing I do when I get home. Public houses are an ingrained part of British culture. It’s one of our favourite places to gather and enjoy the ramblings of our society with a lukewarm pint of below-par lager. 

And the best bit is how friendly people generally are here. It’s the finest place to strike up a conversation with the bartender or the 80-something-year-old dude who’s been coming here every day since World War II ended. 

Okay, not ideal if you’re not a drinker, but you don’t need to drink…

If you’re stopping for a spot of lunch, you’re going to find a bunch of classic British dishes: fish and chips, pie and peas, toad in the hole, and the British number one… curry. It’s a UK masterpiece: an action-packed activity day ended at a Red Lion that smells like 20-year-old ale. 

2. Take the train to nowhere

If you’re travelling alone in the UK, it’s far from cost-effective to drive. Plus, with one of the most extensive train systems in the world, you can get to most corners of the country this way.

As well as being pretty smooth and comfortable, it’s one of the cheapest ways to get around (bar the bus, which is dreadfully slow and annoying). 

If you’re travelling across Scotland , you really can’t beat train travel: the views are beyond spectacular.

If you love slow travel, engineering history, or even just the idea of taking a route that most backpackers won’t see, the steam train rides through the UK are one of the best things to do as a solo traveller in the UK.

Yeah, you know, Harry Potter’s magical mystery tours train rides. Wait, I’m getting mixed up with some icons here…

3. Museum hop

With all of its many flaws and dark, colonial history, the UK does have one redeeming feature: FREE museums. Yes, you read that correctly – completely free of charge. Just walk straight in, no questions asked.

And I’m not talking a crappy display of replicas and billboards. I’m talking world-renowned museums and galleries. There’s nothing I love more than jumping into a museum filled with insane artefacts and archives, without paying a penny.

Here are some of my favourites:

• Museum of Science – Manchester 
• World Museum – Liverpool 
• National Museum of Scotland – Edinburgh
• Natural History Museum – London 
• National Gallery – London 

4. Heading out for a hike

While many people don’t necessarily think about coming to the UK for trekking, it is certainly one of the best things to do. Whether you venture out completely alone or decide to join a group, it’s the only way you can really see the UK. One that I recommend to newbies is the sunset hike up Snowdon in Wales.

You’ll need a solid pair of hiking boots and a raincoat that you can trust with your life (literally). But you’ll be rewarded with the view that very few of the “yes, I’ve been to the UK – I went to London once” tourists won’t ever imagine in their wildest daydreams. 

And yes, going to the pub after it is the best feeling ever.

As a disclaimer: I do recommend that most treks are better done with a buddy on a safety aspect. Especially if the UK decides to display it’s famously brilliant weather, if things go wrong, you do not want to be stuck in the unknown alone. Experienced hikers in the UK know that you must always  check walking conditions before any hike: the weather sour can turn very fast here.

5. Stay for Christmas

Outside of the USA, the UK has one of the most spectacular Christmas periods. Temperatures drop to snuggly weather, the twinkly lights look lovely, and everyone is happy to ignore the misery of winter for the next 4 weeks. 

Christmas markets in the UK are great for flinging you into the Christmas spirit. They’ll be kicking off in any and every city, so it really doesn’t matter where you are.

In some places, you might catch some snow if you’re lucky. If you can grab an invite for Christmas dinner, you’ll be treated to more food than you can put away. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried Yorkshire puddings and pig in blankets (yes, pig in blankets – I’m a veggie, but I make an exception for these little suckers for Jesus’s bday). 

6. Go to a footy match

Okay, this one’s gonna divide some people. Either you couldn’t give less of a shit about football (in which case, skip my 6th recommendation for things to do in the UK as a solo traveller) or I’ve got your full attention. 

Of course, football culture is hardly a joke in England (sorry Scotland, Ireland, and Wales). We have some of the oldest teams, some of the best stadiums in the world , and a whole heap of hooligan supporters.

If you’re a football fanatic, this is somewhat of a pilgrimage.  It’s one of the best solo UK travel adventures you can add to your list.

Because there is such a lack of good backpacker hostels in the UK , it kind of limits you as a solo traveller – unless you’re camping. So one of the best solo travel tips I can give you is starting in a place that offers good places to stay, loads of cool things to do, and a shedload of cool people to meet.

So that’s why we have to commence with…

Okay, this is obvious, but let’s get it out of the way. London isn’t just a haven for solo travellers in the UK but for anyone from any walk of life. 

Even the most experienced London backpackers know you can spend a lifetime in this city, and you won’t see it all. But without anyone to hold you back, you get a unique perspective into this infamous city. 

That’s the wonder about London Town: the biggest parties are always the most intimate. 

Stay in London’s finest neighbourhoods and discover all those hidden gems that most travellers will never see. I love spending time in Soho and Camden . Albeit expensive, I’ve had some of the most memorable nights watching London life pass me by.

Arguably the most beautiful places in the UK for solo travellers, no one does hospitality like the Scottish. Travelling to Edinburgh is an honour: anyone who enters this majestic city is heavily rewarded.

It took me 25 years until I managed to get to Edinburgh. I was nagged and nagged by my friends who had been and spoke so highly of the city.

It’s not cheap, and finding that budget accommodation was tough. But when I finally got a gap in my calendar that suited an invite off Couchsurfing, I jumped at the chance. I’m now one of those people that nags all my friends that haven’t been to Edinburgh too.

I mean, Harry Potter’s world was heavily inspired by this city, so that can start to paint a picture in your mind of what to expect. As you can see, I’m standing in front of Hogwarts. Edinburgh Castle entry and tour is a little expensive to get in but it’s so worth it if you can swing it.

Manchester has been one of the world’s most influential cities of modern times . As well as being at the forefront of the industrial revolution, they have also influenced music, football, and technology around the world. And these are all things that I have to recommend you see if you’re travelling to the UK alone.

Of course, many football fanatics dream of watching a Manchester United or Manchester City game (or both, but don’t divulge that information while you’re there). Let me warn you, tickets are damn expensive. But if it’s the dream then it’s the dream. 

Not to be mistaken with Londonderry (yes, it’s the same place, but you’d best not be calling it “Londonderry” while you’re there) is a gem in Northern Ireland. With Irish pub culture being that of a global icon, you’ll bet your arse this is where you’re going to find the best pints and conversations in the UK as a solo traveller.

John, George, Paul, Ringo, yes Liverpool, we know: you made The Beatles. 

You couldn’t possibly step foot here without having it rammed down your throat. With everything Beatles could possibly cram into one city. If you’re a music fanatic, it’s pretty much an essential visit. The motherland of 4 of the most monumental figures in music history. 

But besides excessive amounts of tourists based around a band, Liverpool is a groundbreaking city. And actually, they have one of the most friendly and welcoming communities for solo travellers in the UK . Even though it’s close to home, I still love staying at The Pod Hostel here to meet amazing travellers.

Even being the cultural capital of Europe, Liverpool is one of those magical cities that accepts people from all walks of life. Scousers (people from Liverpool) are extremely affectionate. 

Look, I’m not going to say that it’s easy getting yourself over to Wales a on a travel route alone around the UK. The public transport service is pretty limited, which makes things a bit complicated.

But I tell you know, it’s by far my favourite solo escape in the UK. Endless peace, kind people, tasty food, and hills lined with history – actually, I’d go as far it’s one of my absolute favourite places to travel alone .

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

When you’re trotting around England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, it will make a difference if you’ve got access to the internet. Having these essential travel apps to hand changes the experience for solo travellers in the UK so much. It’s like having an external brain in your hand.

• Booking.com and Hostelworld – Make sure you’re scouting both of these platforms for the best prices. However, I’ve found Booking.com to be considerably better in recent months.
• Trainline – Best train travel app with updated timetables and to purchase cheap tickets.
• Railcard – 1/3 off train tickets? Yes mate, I’m in. I’m sorry if you’ve had your 31st birthday, you can’t get a solo railcard again until you’re a senior. But this sucker has saved me an absolute fortune on public transport in the UK.
• Holafly – Getting around the UK is much easier with a SIM card. An e-SIM like Holafly means you can download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card.
• Tinder – It’s not all hook-ups and bad dates. It can also be making friends and even scoring some weed. And hey, my best friend just bagged herself a Tinder husband, soooo…
• Uber – Look, I’m not particularly happy about adding this one to the list but they’re generally better than taxi drivers – especially in London. If you miss the last bus and you’re up shit creek without a paddle, Uber is generally cheaper and much, much safer than normal taxis.
• The National Trust – Find the closest place to see the gorgeous countryside, no matter where you are on the map. Just pop in your postcode and head on out.

While the UK is a safe place for solo travellers, like anywhere, it’s not 100% safe. That doesn’t mean you have anything to worry about, but you do have some things that you should bear in mind. 

Particularly in big cities (London is especially bad) crime is present. Be aware that the VAST majority of visitors never encounter any issues – because there are plenty of ways to avoid them. 

Surprisingly, most people I know who have had issues with theft and robbery are men. This is usually because they think they are safe to walk home from the pub or club at night – when in fact they aren’t. 

From experience, trains and buses can be cancelled last minute. So it’s never a good idea to rely on the last train. There’s always a chance that you’ll be left stranded on a train platform. 

Do not carry weapons. As well as many being illegal, most injuries caused by weapons are actually people who have their own used back on themselves.

• Couchsurf – this is one of the best tips for solo budget travellers. You’ll meet a local who knows a bunch of cool, hidden spots that tourists don’t usually get to see AND save yourself a full night’s accommodation in a usually expensive place. 
• Plan your own trip – Hey, recommendations from people are great. But the world is your oyster! Don’t live someone else’s oyster. If it doesn’t sound like your thing, you don’t have to do it.
• Plan some booked adventures – Look, I wouldn’t always recommend this, but the UK isn’t exactly a backpacker haven. Find some cool UK tours to uncover the beauty and history of this diverse country and also meet like-minded travellers.
• Keep your itinerary flexible – the last thing you want is to fall in love and then have to leave. 
• But contradictory to that… Book ahead – if you know the days and destinations in advance, you’ll save a tonne of money by booking in advance.
• Stay in a hostel – Look, there isn’t much of a hostel scene in the UK outside of the main cities. But it’s worth targeting them, even if it’s just to try to meet some like-minded friends.
• Get good travel insurance – Slip-ups happen when you’re travelling. And in an expensive destination like the UK, this isn’t what you need.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Look, I can shit-talk the UK all day long. But, unless you’re also from the UK, you definitely can’t. Truth is, I love this damn country, warts an’ all.

The humour will always tickle me better than anywhere else, I’ll always be starstruck by the history these little islands have gone through, and I even miss the grey days and rain when I’m away.

Writing this post about solo travel in the UK makes my heart melt. I want everyone in the world to see why we have so much to complain about.

The summers are insanely good: the days are long, the weather is better, and everyone is in good spirits. Truth be told, I can’t think of many places I’d rather be in summer. But just as the law of polarity dictates: the winters are proper shite. If October is creeping in, I wouldn’t bother until March, mate.

• Check out the most beautiful places to visit in the UK   for the most dope solo trip. 
• Mate, you’re a backpacker, find yourself a DOPE hostel in the UK !
• Our ultimate backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll ever need. 
• Crash those waves in the best surfing beaches in the UK.
• Or… hit the trail in Peak District, one of UK’s best national parks.
• And if your plans are big, check out our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.

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12 Great Places To Visit Alone In England

Travelling solo in England is one of the best experiences. It’s quite safe, transport is excellent and the people are friendly. These are some of the best spots to visit, from dynamic cities, to seaside towns and rolling countryside.

England’s rail network has good links around the country. There are coaches connecting cities and towns, and local buses within smaller areas. There’s also the option of hiring a car if you want more flexibility in getting around. Whichever way you decide to travel, there are so many beautiful destinations to explore.

Keep reading to discover the best places to go as a solo traveller in England.

Disclaimer: Hi! this post may contain affiliate links which will take you to online retailers that sell products and services. If you click on one and buy something, I may earn a commission, see my  Affiliate Disclosure  for more details.

Although England is so much more than London, the capital is definitely a great place to start if you’re travelling by yourself. You can get pretty much anywhere you like with Transport for London’s tube, buses and overground trains.

The city is packed with world-class attractions, and whatever your interests are, you’re bound to find something to do. If you’re a history buff then London is the perfect destination. Some of the world’s most well known historical buildings are located in London.

From royal residences like Buckingham Palace and Hampton Court Palace to religious monuments like Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, there is plenty of history to get lost in. London also has a large number of fascinating museums, from the Natural History Museum to the National Portrait Gallery.

There are plenty of options for sightseeing as well. Whether you like to whizz through the city on an open deck tour bus, walk around neighbourhoods or sail down the Thames, you can choose how you want to explore. If you prefer to take it easy and want to avoid the tourist crowds, London has plenty of green spaces including Hyde Park, Primrose Hill and Hampstead Heath.

If it’s raining, head to Kew Gardens for some incredible indoor jungles. You won’t be stuck finding a bargain either, as London is home to a huge variety of markets selling everything from fashion and jewellery, to vintage goods and antiques.

2# Oxford, Oxfordshire

Oxford is a city that’s filled with beautiful old buildings, cobbled streets and picturesque views. Oxford Bus Company has great connections around the city, so you won’t be stuck for transport. Oxford is also a very bike-friendly city and is often the fastest way to get around, so it’s worth renting one out.

Although the city centre isn’t too large, there are still plenty of things that you can see and do in Oxford. It would be pretty hard to visit the city without heading to its famous university. You can take a behind the scenes tour of the University of Oxford with a student , admire its amazing architecture and learn about its history.

Another fun historical site is Oxford Castle and Prison. Visit the exhibitions and listen to the intriguing stories of the people who lived in the castle. Afterwards, climb St George’s Tower to enjoy panoramic views over Oxford.

Those of you who have a green thumb will love a visit to Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum. It’s the UK’s oldest botanic garden and a great place to unwind amongst the greenery.

Another relaxing activity also happens to be a unique, quintessentially Oxford way of seeing the city – punting. Take in the charming old buildings as you float down the River Cherwell. If you’re looking to do a little shopping, the Covered Market has been selling everything from fresh produce to bric a brac since 1774.

3# The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which lies across six different counties. Covering almost 800 square miles, the best way to explore the area would be by car, as it offers you much more flexibility in the places you can visit. There are picturesque English villages, lively market towns, splendid country houses and rolling countryside.

Bourton on Water is a beautiful village nicknamed ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ because the River Windrush flows right through it. Attractions in the village include the Cotswolds Motor Museum and the Model Village. Another charming village is Painswick, known as the Queen of the Cotswolds. It’s home to some of the best-preserved settlements in the area and has some great walking trails.

Cirencester is a lovely market town which was popular during the Roman era, and you can explore the Roman history at the Corinium Museum. For even more history, visit the impressive Berkeley Castle, originally built in the 12th century. If quirky old houses are more of your thing, then head to Snowshill Manor. This traditional Cotswolds manor house is filled with an assemblage of peculiar objects collected by the eccentric architect and artist Charles Paget Wade.

Looking for a longer trip to the Cotswolds without a car? Here are 6 places to stay and how to get around the Cotswolds without a car.

4# St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives is a picturesque seaside town in Cornwall, famous for its fantastic surf beaches and art scene. The views here are second to none, with sparkling blue waters, cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages. It’s pretty easy to get around St Ives on foot or bicycle.

If you’re wanting to explore further out, it’s easiest to rent a car, although there are buses and trains that link St Ives with other coastal towns. If you’re interested in art, St Ives is a great place to be.

Its scenery has attracted artists including Barbara Hepworth, Turner, Henry Moore and Whistler. There are over 30 local art shops and galleries to visit, and some of the best ones are the Tate St Ives, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and the New Craftsman Gallery.

Whether you enjoy watersports, paddling or relaxing on the sand, there are many beaches to choose from. From larger beaches like Porthminster and Harbour Beach, to quieter ones like Porthgwidden, you’re bound to find the perfect sandy spot for a picnic.

Another great way to appreciate the sea views is to go on a coastal walk. There are many that you can take, including the St Ives to Carbis Bay walk, St Ives to Zennor walk and the St Ives to Lelant walk. If you’re keen to get out on the ocean, why not take a boat trip to Seal Island. Trips run from the harbour and take you seal spotting – you might also spot sharks, dolphins, porpoises and sea birds.

5# Mersea Island, Essex

Mersea Island is an island in the Blackwater and Colne Estuaries in Essex. The island is connected to the mainland by the Strood, a causeway which often floods at high tide. Before driving over, make sure you check the tide times.

There are also buses which connect Colchester to West Mersea. Although the island is only eight miles square, there is so much to see and do. The waters around Mersea Island are calm and shallow, making it perfect for watersports. Paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing are particularly popular.

There are breathtaking views all around and if you have time, you can walk the entire island which takes about five hours. You’ll pass tidal flats, colourful beach huts, the Blackwater Estuary and farm land. If you want a shorter route, take the Cudmore Grove Country Park circular route.

There is evidence of human settlement on the island that dates back to pre-Roman times. It was very popular as a holiday destination for the Romans, as the Roman settlement of Colchester was nearby. Mersea Island was also a significant place for troops during both World Wars.

To explore more of the history, head to Mersea Island Museum which has exhibitions on the local, natural and marine history of the island. After exploring, make sure you sample the freshly caught local seafood. It’s especially known for its oysters which are cultivated from the creeks surrounding the island.

6# Norwich, Norfolk

The historic city of Norwich lies on the River Wensum in Norfolk. It’s a great place to visit solo as it’s safe, friendly and easy to get around. Steeped in history, Norwich is the most complete medieval city in the country, full of cobbled streets, ancient buildings, half-timbered houses and medieval lanes.

The first stop for any traveller should be Norwich Cathedral. This iconic building has over 1,000 colourful roof bosses, sweeping vaulted walkways and the famous cloisters. Norwich Castle is another must-see. Built between 1066 and 1075, the castle served as a jail for most of its life. Take a guided tour and make your way up to the battlements for panoramic views over the city.

Norwich is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and is the perfect place to spend time outdoors. Norwich is located within the Broads National Park, an area of navigable lakes and rivers. The park is filled with footpaths, nature reserves and wildlife parks – the perfect place to get away from it all. The best way to get around is by boat, canoe or kayak.

It’s also easy to explore on foot or by bike, as there many quiet country lanes along the edges of the water. Back in the city, the Plantation Garden is a restored Victorian garden which is packed with colourful flower beds and unique plants. You’ll also find a gothic fountain, Italianate terrace and a rustic bridge.

7# Liverpool, Merseyside

This maritime city is a fantastic destination to visit alone. The city centre is compact and easy to walk around, and the Merseyrail and local buses connect you to surrounding areas. Liverpool is rich in history and culture with world-class attractions.

It’s widely known as the birthplace of The Beatles , who were formed in the city in 1960. Check out The Beatles Story, an immersive walk-through experience with tons of memorabilia and merchandise. There are some amazing tribute acts who perform at The Cavern Club, an iconic live music venue that played a role in the birth of The Beatles.

Why not take a Beatles Tour by Taxi in Liverpool. You will visit iconic sites such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields and learn what inspired this great band.

Liverpool has a rich maritime history and was once one of the busiest docks in the world. The waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are many attractions along it to explore. The Royal Albert Dock is a complex of dock buildings and warehouses, which is now a major tourist attraction.

It’s home to the Tate Liverpool, as well as an array of independent shops, boutiques and cafes. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Museum of Liverpool are also along the waterfront. The best way to admire the city’s skyline is from the Mersey Ferry, via a hop-on-hop-off ride along the River Mersey.

Liverpool Cathedral is the largest religious building in Britain and is definitely worth a visit. It’s a stunning building, home to the world’s highest and widest Gothic arches, the largest organ in the country and beautiful stained glass windows. Climb to the viewing platform for views across to Wales.

8# Canterbury, Kent

Canterbury is a cathedral city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the River Stour, the city is easy to get around. It’s set up for pedestrians, although there are also local buses within the city centre. Canterbury is famous for its cathedral, and no visit to the city would be complete without stepping foot inside one of the oldest Christian structures in England.

The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, although perhaps it’s best known as the place of murder of Thomas Becket who was killed by King Henry II’s army in 1170. Take a guided tour and trace the steps that pilgrims would’ve made in the Middle Ages.

If you’re more interested in the Romans, the Canterbury Roman Museum is a fascinating place. It’s built on the remains of a former Roman town house, and you can even see the original mosaics as well as other artefacts that were used in everyday life.

If you prefer a more relaxed approach to sightseeing, a boat tour down the River Stour is a unique way to see the city. Spot landmarks like the Dominican Priory and Greyfriars Chapel. There are many green spaces to chill out in too.

Make your way to the Westgate Parks, a formation of four different landscape areas made up of woodland, meadows, gardens and riverside. Culture vultures will love a trip to the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury’s leading performing arts venue. With a wide programme of concerts, dramas, musicals, contemporary dance shows, ballets, operas, comedy shows, you’ll definitely find something you enjoy.

9# Exeter, Devon

Located on the River Exe, Exeter is a cathedral city in Devon. It was heavily influenced by the Romans, Tudors and Victorians, and boasts a rich history which is reflected in its sites and attractions.

Exeter is quite compact and has excellent transport links, so getting around is simple. Exeter Cathedral is one of the prettiest cathedrals from the Medieval era. Take a guided or audio tour to hear the stories of the people who influenced it. Spot the highlights of the cathedral, including the 15th century Astronomical Clock and the Minstrels’ Gallery.

Another historical sight in the city which can’t be missed are the Underground Passages. Unique to Exeter, this web of underground tunnels spreads for 425 metres across the city and were originally used to transport water in medieval times. Make your way through the tunnels on a guided tour.

Take a stroll through the city before stopping at the quayside. This is one of the most picturesque parts of Exeter and has a historically important past. Here you’ll see old warehouses and historic buildings, left behind from when the city was a thriving centre for the wool trade.

There are lots of shops and cafes at the quayside, which is a lovely spot to have a drink by the water. For a little adventure, head out to Haldon Forest Park, a 15 minute drive from the city centre. There is so much to do here, including Nordic walking, cycling, mountain biking and the Go Ape Treetop Adventure.

10# West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire is a county that has everything – cultural cities, quaint market towns and scenic countryside. There are excellent train, coach and bus connections which link villages, towns and cities throughout the county.

For a spot of culture, head to the city of Leeds. It’s home to some wonderful art galleries, museums, theatres and live music venues which offer something to suit all tastes. Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall and the Leeds Playhouse have a wide programme of events all year round.

Make sure to visit the Royal Armouries and see over 75,000 pieces of arms and armour from around the world. If you’re more interested in sculptures, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield won’t disappoint. The open-air gallery displays modern and contemporary pieces, and is set over 500 acres of parkland.

Experience the charm of a classic Yorkshire village in Haworth, once home to the Brontë sisters. Learn more about the famous bookwrights at the Brontë Parsonage Museum. Haworth is a great place to shop, and its pretty, cobbled High Street is packed with independent shops, boutiques, cafes and artisan bakeries.

The village is a great starting point for different walks on the surrounding moors. If you’re looking for a woodland walk, Hardcastle Crags offers some lovely views. Just north of Hebden Bridge, this woodland valley has over 15 miles of footpath. Make your way past rocky ravines, tranquil streams and alluring waterfalls.

11# The Lake District, Cumbria

A trip to the Lake District is a must when visiting England. Located in Cumbria, its name comes from the collection of glacial lakes that lie amongst the fells, moors and valleys. Its beautiful countryside has inspired writers and artists for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why.

It’s particularly popular with outdoor lovers and has plenty of hikes, walks and cycling trails. The Lakes is a great place to visit alone, as it’s very safe, the people are friendly and there is a wide choice of accommodation all around. The best way of getting around the area is by car, as a lot of the best places to see are quite remote and don’t have public transport links.

A good base for exploring the Lakes is Ambleside, a small town with interesting shops, pretty houses and tons of great restaurants. From here, you can walk to Stockghyll Force, a waterfall walk that boasts sweeping views over the town.

Grasmere is a pretty village filled with stone cottages and cafes. It’s home to Dove Cottage, where the writer William Wordsworth grew up. The Wordsworth Museum and Art Gallery is also located in the village.

Head to Tarn Hows in Coniston Waters for one of the most picturesque views in the area. There is a circular walk around the water which is suitable for all abilities. Another picture-postcard view is Wasdale Head from Wastwater. Wastwater is the deepest lake in the Lake District, and is surrounded by mountains including Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

Full-day tours are also offered from Windermere and Oxenholme which is a great way to see the Lake District if you don’t want to rent a car and get the most out of your visit!

12# Chester, Cheshire

Chester was founded as a Roman fortress in the 1st century AD. It’s famous for its city walls which were built by the Romans as a defensive system. Stroll round the three kilometre walls and admire the many picturesque old buildings dotted round the city.

Look out for the Eastgate Clock which marks the original entrance to the Roman fortress of Deva. Another fun way to admire the views is by visiting the Chester Cathedral and climbing to the top of the central tower. It serves some of the best views across one city, two countries and five counties. You can also take a boat tour along the River Dee, where you’ll get to see some of the city’s landmarks as well as an abundance of wildlife.

You can’t visit Chester without going to Chester Zoo. One of the best zoos in the world and notable for its conservation efforts, Chester Zoo is enormous and is home to over 21,000 different animals. There are buses from Chester that travel straight to the zoo.

If you love to shop, Chester is an excellent place to be. Chester Rows is a series of half-timbered buildings dating back to Medieval times, and is now used as shopping arcades. You’ll find big-name brands as well as independent retailers.

To learn more about Chester and the surrounding area, visit the Grosvenor Museum. Housed in a magnificent Renaissance Revival building, you’ll come face to face with Roman artefacts, reconstructions of period houses, silverware, paintings and tombstones.

When travelling solo in England, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to see. You’ll find that England is safe to travel around, and the locals are friendly and accommodating. There is so much fascinating history and culture to explore, and whether you prefer cities, towns or the outdoors, you won’t be short of places to visit.

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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How to Make the Most of Solo Travel in the UK

Tips and Pointers if You're On Your Own in the United Kingdom

More and more people are choosing to travel on their own these days. If you're thinking of going it alone for the first time, the United Kingdom is an excellent solo travel choice. Read on to find out why.

According to the MMGYGlobal , an international network of travel, tourism and hospitality companies, an international survey in 2018 found that one in four travelers planning trips in the coming year plan to travel solo. TrekSoft , an online booking and software provider for the tour and activites market reports that searches for female solo travel grew by 52% between 2016 and 2017. And VISA's Travel Intentions Study for 2018 found that 23% of travelers site "treating myself" as their reason for travel - a solo motivation if ever there was one.

Don't confuse solo travel with singles travel. Today's solo travelers are not all singles looking to hook up on a sun, sex and sangria holiday - or super fit adventurous young men and women out exploring the lesser known corners of the world. Travel guru Marybeth Bond, who blogs at The Gutsy Traveler , points out that the average adventure traveler these days is a 47-year-old woman who wears a size 12 (also pretty average). She also reported that between 2010 and 2016, the number of women-only travel companies increased by 230% as more and more women traveled solo.

So Who Travels Solo?

Once you get past the obvious - the aforementioned young singles - there's a remarkably wide spectrum of people vacationing and traveling on their own. Sometimes it's because of life circumstances - divorce, separation, job relocations disrupting friendships. Sometimes it's just a practical choice - it may not be possible to link up with friends who can travel when you can, want to see what you want to see and can afford the same vacations that you can. And more and more these days it's a matter of choice with happily coupled-up people choosing to take their own solo trips. 

In the past, unattached adults would pass up an opportunity to travel or compromise on destinations while waiting for a traveling companion to become available. Today, they are more likely to go it alone than ever before. And with a little advanced planning , it is possible to travel completely independently without spending a fortune on single-supplements or feeling out of place in the midst of families and couples.

Why the UK is a Great Solo Travel Destination

Lots of factors make the UK a good choice for first time solo travelers - especially women traveling on their own.

• It's comparatively safe - No place in the world is absolutely, completely safe anymore. But as international destinations go, the UK is among the safest because of its rule of law
• decent police and public safety services
• good fire and safety inspections and practices for hotels, train, roads and public buildings.
• Like most cities, London now as Uber and Lyft drivers as well as lots of mini-cab companies. But as a stranger in town, if you are on your own it's probably best to rely on traditional licensed London black cabs or have your hotel suggest a mini-cab company. 

      And if you get in trouble, emergency medical care is free (but only emergency care).

• There's plenty to do without a partner - On a singles cruise, or in a resort you can find yourself the odd one out among loved-up couples or families. Whether you choose to explore castles and museums, go to the theater, enjoy some shopping or take in amazing scenery, once you start planning your UK vacation, you'll find a lot to do on your own.
• You don't have to worry about single-supplements - In the UK, rooms are charged on a per room per night (prpn) basis rather than by per person per night (pppn). In many situations, if a room is offered as bed & breakfast accommodations, you may actually save a little money since, if there's only one for breakfast, room rates can be reduced.
• The British are very cosmopolitan - People come to the UK from all over the world, for business and for pleasure. Local people are accustomed to visitors, proud of their communities and usually willing to be helpful if approached politely. (Of course, there are always exceptions, so use some common sense when approaching strangers.)

Some Tips About Traveling on Your Own in the UK

• Small is friendlier - Choose small hotels and b&bs with just a few rooms. The owners of such places often enjoy meeting their guests and chatting with them. If you are on your own, they'll want to ensure you feel comfortable. They'll also be good sources of local information - best things to see, best places to visit in the area - and can usually give you accurate up-to-date information on restaurant food and prices. When I stayed at the Avalon in Brighton the owners even invited me to join them at a local pub for a drink. Do be cautious about Airbnb arrangements if you are female and traveling alone. Use your common sense and aim for accommodations offered by women, by couples or by families.
• Don't believe everything you've heard about pubs - Despite the best efforts of the British tourism authorities, lots of pubs are not the friendly welcoming places you might imagine. They don't call them "locals" for nothing. If you want a drink or an inexpensive meal on your own, a pub can be a great place for for a quick, cheap bite to eat. But if you are hoping to meet and talk with local people, you'll probably be disappointed unless the landlord is feeling talkative. Read more about how to cope in a British Pub.
• Be open to encounters - Just because you are traveling on your own, doesn't mean you need to be alone all the time. If people make friendly overtures to you and your common sense tells you it's safe to respond (and you are in the mood) by all means do so. Once, while reviewing a very smart restaurant outside Edinburgh, I struck up a conversation with a group of businessmen from California while enjoying a drink in the restaurant's living room-style bar. A few minutes after we were seated at our separate tables in the dining room, the men sent word inviting me to join them for dinner. I did, had a really nice evening and they even paid the bill! I've met an Aussie backpacker in a B&B who shared her world tour adventures with me; a National Park Warden in a small town cafe who went home and then returned laden with helpful brochures. Once, when I was the only American who had visited a small Welsh town in years, one of the hotel owner's friends (who had worked in the USA) took me home to have tea with his Mum in a cottage by the River Usk.
• In restaurants:
• Don't accept a table hidden away in a dark corner, too close to the kitchen and the toilets. If they can't seat you comfortably, go somewhere else.
• Don't bury your nose in a book, a tablet or a laptop. Bring a notebook or journal and make the occasional note. It makes you look interesting and mysterious rather than lonely and pathetic.
• If you want to try a famous restaurant or Michelin-starred establishment but you're nervous about being on your own, either go early when there will be fewer romantic couples around, or try lunch there instead. Lunch is likely to be a bargain compared to dinner prices as well.
• If you're hungry for some company , join a group activity. Take a city walking tour - Try Joanna Moncrief at Westminster Walks . Her London walking tour groups are small, friendly and full of information. They usually end at a historic or particularly interesting pub. Wherever you are in the UK, the local tourist information office usually runs walking tours - often free - or can introduce you to local guides. Another group tour I recently discovered, Eat London , offers excellent daytime and evening tours exploring some of the capital's best foodie neighborhoods in small, friendly groups. 
• Sign up for a one day course in cookery or some kind of craft. There's nothing like a bit of messy group work to get the cameraderie going. The National Trust often runs workshops and courses at its properties around the country. Just look under the events listing on the specific property website. In London, you can take cooking classes at Books for Cooks , Atelier des Chefs and The Billingsgate Seafood School at Billingsgate Market. In Birmingham, you can learn Michelin level skills at Saturday classes at Simpsons . You could also sign up for a short break with cookery classes at a luxury country house hotel, or check out Nick Wyke's website Looking to Cook for loads more cooking classes.
• Know when it's safe to be alone and when it's not . A daytime walk around historic sites in a city center is fine to do alone. A pub crawl to historic and unusual pubs at night is best done with a group (Check out Westminster Walks, link above, for occasional pub walks). Out in the countryside, walking or cycling on level routes and marked paths between villages and towns is usually safe enough. But if you're thinking of going off piste in the Highlands, the Peak District, the Lake District or Snowdonia, go with someone who knows the territory and the weather conditions.

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10 best places for a solo UK holiday according to the travel insiders

By Dominic Oliver

Lover of literature and all things travel. Probably happiest sitting on a tiny plastic stool on the side of a bustling Vietnamese street. Head of Creative Communications for Contiki. 7 years in the travel industry. Currently based in London.

Published on Nov 23, 2023 | 7 min

Sure, planning a trip with your friends/partner/family is fun. But sometimes, the best tonic for the soul is a solo adventure. Maybe that’s why over 70% of Contiki travellers join trips solo …

And sometimes you needn’t look further than your own backyard. For a small country, the UK seriously packs a punch. Sweeping valleys. Sparkling lakes. Charming seaside towns. Quaint villages dotted with thatched cottages and ancient pubs. For all our complaints about the weather, we’ve gotta say – we kinda love it here!

And the best bit? The UK is easy-breezy to travel around, and a great starting point if you’re looking to get stuck into somewhere solo for the first time. That’s why we asked the Contiki Marketing team for their insider tips on the best places to take a solo UK holiday. They didn’t disappoint…

England and Scotland

1. Brighton – Dom, Head of Creative Communications

Once budget airlines started to pop-up British seaside towns became a bit wistful and nostalgic. You know: dilapidated buildings, empty arcades, amusement piers that once teemed with Victorian day-trippers populated by a lone seagull scowling and eating cold chips. But not Brighton.

With its riotous nightlife, thrumming live music scene and winding lanes with quirky shops selling all sorts of curiosities, it’s a bit of a rarity: a truly future-facing coastal town. Plus, the locals are so friendly, the culture so vibrant, that you’re bound to make some new pals when you’re exploring solo.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 1-hour train ride from London. Why not pop into Brighton for the day before your Contiki departure?

Image source: Ben Guerin / unsplash

2. The Cotswolds – Lottie, Chief Marketing Officer

Picturesque pubs, amazing delis and epic dog walks (a trip with your pooch counts as a solo holiday, okay) – this cluster of villages is the English countryside at its best. From Burford to Bourton on Water, you can basically eat your way around the villages, drinking in the traditional honey-coloured stone houses along the way. There are so many local foods to try – from cheeses to pastries – and with plenty of cafes instead of posh restaurants, you might feel less intimidated when it comes to eating out. Don’t miss Daylesford’s organic farm shop.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 2.5 hour train ride from London.

12 best places to visit in England if you love all things quintessentially British

3. The Lake District – Charlie, Editorial & Content Executive

If you’re a lover of thick forests, long walks or hikes, and, of course, lakes that span for miles and miles and miles, then you’ll be a big fan of the Lake District. On the North West side of England, tucked just under Scotland, is the Lake District and it’s one of the most picturesque places I’ve been with vibrant green hills and open skies.

My favourite place within the Lakes is Windermere – this little town is dotted with so many cosy shops and cafés to duck into on a particularly windy day. It’s on a hill, and as you walk down the slope you start to see the lakes in all their glittery glory. The weather isn’t always the best, but a little rain never hurt nobody, and it makes it all the more dramatic in my opinion!

Getting there: 6-hour drive / 3.5-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

Image source: Contiki

4. Bristol – Liv, Email & CRM Manager

You just can’t get bored in Bristol. I’d recommend doing a fun street art walking tour where you can join and meet new people (and spot a few original Banksy works!). I love walking around Clifton as it’s such a cute area with beautiful houses, book shops and cafes. A great way to finish the day is by watching the sunset from the Clifton Suspension Bridge (if you’re lucky with the weather). If you’re there for a while, you could book a day trip to Bath, which is just 15 minutes away by train.

Getting there: 2.5-hour drive / 1.5-hour train ride from London. Bristol will make the perfect day trip before your Contiki if you’ve got time to kill.

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5. Bath – Jimmy, Creative Content Lead

And conveniently, Bath is the next favourite on the list! Bath is a really popular solo getaway in the UK because of the beautiful architecture and the iconic, you guessed it, baths. This town has been featured in many film and TV filming locations including Bridgerton and the soon-to-be-released Wonka , so you’re sure to recognise a few spots in this pretty and idyllic area. The Christmas Markets here aren’t too shabby either, a stop by is well-worth it!

Getting there: 2.5-hour drive / 1.5-hour train ride from London. Nothing to get a Contiki started off right with a quick day trip to Bath!

Image source: James Shaw / unsplash

6. Brownsea Island – Nick, Senior Content Marketing Manager

For an underrated but cute day trip to the South of England, head to Brownsea Island! This island is only a 1 and a half miles long and three quarters of a mile wide so you can walk the whole thing on a bright and sunny day for a wholesome activity. 

To get here you have to head to Poole and then catch a boat to the island. What’s great about this island is that it’s nearly entirely owned by the National Trust so all the beautiful nature and most of the buildings are owned and protected by them. What I especially love about Brownsea Island is that it’s home to lots of red squirrels, which are very rare in the UK, as well as peacocks, so that makes it extra special.

7. Rye – Rachel, Brand Director

Rye in Sussex is perfect for a solo getaway in the UK. This quaint English town is all cobbled streets and antique shops. I also love browsing the local charity shops. There’s a great independent local cinema plus heaps of good places to eat – from modern health food cafes to seafood and pub grub. And the bonus is you’re only 10 minutes from the stunning Camber Sands beaches which stretch for miles and miles.

Getting there: 2-hour drive / 1-hour train ride from London. If you’ve got some spare time before your Contiki departure, pop into Rye!

Image source: Zoltan Tasi / unsplash

8. York – Nico, Data Analyst

York has retained so much of its ancient and storied architecture: from medieval cathedrals, pubs dating back to the 1600s, and the Roman structures. The city is well preserved and holds so much history – the walk along the Roman walls is peaceful and a great way to see the city.

Getting there: 4.5-hour drive / 2-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

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9. Edinburgh – Tammy, Social Media Executive

I love Edinburgh for lots of reasons, but a big one is because I’m a big Harry Potter nerd and Edinburgh is full of Harry Potter references. The cute and colourful Victoria street inspired Diagon Alley! The other reasons are that it’s really easy to navigate, and the old architecture is really nice and gives Edinburgh a great classic atmosphere.

There’s Edinburgh Castle, which is beautiful, right in the middle of the town, and you can also hike up to Arthur’s Seat which is a really chilled hike to do, especially on a sunny day (yes, they do happen)!

Getting there: 7.5-hour drive / 5.5-hour train ride from London, OR you can visit on Contiki’s England and Scotland trip.

10. Cornwall – Manasi, Product Copywriter

Sunny and serene, Cornwall is a gem amongst British regions. Boasting bright coasts and dramatic cliffs, it’s the perfect solo getaway in the UK for those that love long walks by the sea and getting cosy in that cottage-life. Fresh fish and chips, Cornish pasties filled with stewy goodness, sweet cream teas, and local ice cream – it’s a bit of a foodie haven to be honest!

It’s beautiful in Spring and what’s more is that you can spot dolphins leaping out of the ocean on a lucky day! St. Ives is the most popular town and for good reason as it’s filled with adorable shops and lots and lots and lots of art galleries where you can buy your very own painting of the regional cliffs, beaches, and coves.

Getting there: 5-hour drive / 4.5-hour train ride from London.

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These Are The Best Destinations In The U.K. For Solo Travelers

The U.K. is one of the best places for beginners to travel solo, and these destinations have plenty to offer an individual.

Read update

More Destinations In The U.K. For Solo travelers

Traveling solo can be truly liberating . The adventures of doing everything alone are the best tonic for the soul. When searching for places to travel solo, look no further than the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom has so much to offer to solo travelers. Despite travel restrictions, it still received the highest number of tourists compared to the rest of Europe. Some of the safest cities in the world can be found here, as well as an extremely low crime rate that is perfect for solo travelers.

From quaint buildings to modern shopping centers, the U.K. offers stunning places . It might be a tiny island, but it is packed with history, culture, local delicacies, and scenic views. Here are some of the best destinations in the U.K. for solo travelers.

UPDATE: 2023/05/19 15:45 EST BY KHYATI DAND

The U.K. is one of the best countries for solo travelers. An extensive railway network connects one part of the country to the other, making it incredibly easy for lone travelers to visit England's quaint countryside, its buzzing cities, historic towns, and sprawling seaside villages. This list was updated to include some more destinations that visitors should add to their U.K. solo trip bucket list.

Related: 10 Reasons 2023 Is The Year To Start Traveling Solo

13 Cambridge

Cambridge is a dreamy destination for solo travelers. The university town welcomes lone visitors with warmth and there are plenty of safe lodging options and youth hostels next to the university campus. Days in Cambridge are spent visiting renowned bookshops and strolling through picturesque gardens in the morning, indulging in lavish afternoon teas -- an affair that Cambridge is particularly famous for -- during midday, going punting on the River Cam in the evenings, and heading to a historic pub at night.

12 Mersea Island

Britain is famous for its quaint seaside towns, some of which are a secret to outside tourists. Sure, there are cities like Brighton, Blackpool, and Devon that are famous countrywide for their beaches, but they also attract throngs of visitors each day. For solo travelers hoping to catch a bit of peace and quiet by the sea, Mersea Island is an excellent place to be. Connected to the nearest town of Colchester via a narrow road, Mersea is an enchanting little island that can be explored on foot in under five hours. Even better, the beach on Meresea Island is filled with little beach huts that can be booked by the night and they are just the right size for solo travelers.

Mersea Island is connected to the mainland via a very narrow road called the Strood. The island is susceptible to high tides which can occur at least twice every day during which the Strood can completely submerge underwater, cutting access to the island temporarily. Always check high tide times before planning a trip to Mersea Island.

11 The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds isn't just one of the best places in the U.K. for solo travel, it's one of the best destinations to visit in the U.K. period . The charming 800-square-mile region is everything that one would expect a quintessentially British town to be: there are rolling green hills, grand castles, stunning woodland, little cottages built in stone, bridges that connect narrow streams, and miles and miles of open countryside to walk in.

10 Isle Of Skye

Hoping to hole up in a remote Airbnb with no contact with civilization and only medieval castles, rugged coastline, towering sea cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and crashing waves for company? Isle of Sky may be just the destination for such a solo trip in the U.K. Connected to Scotland's northern coast through a bridge, the Isle of Skye is a breathtaking destination for solo travelers who want to spend a few days soaking in the exceptional natural beauty of one of U.K's most remote and beautiful regions.

Related: Isle Of Skye: This Itinerary Is Just As Magical As Scotland's Legendary Island

Cornwall is a huge picturesque beach with a coastline of over 400 miles. It offers watersports lessons that will keep tourists active throughout their stay. It is simply the best solo travel destination in the UK for those who need a mental recharge and some relaxing time at the beach. It has beautiful tourist attractions and adventurous caves that tourists can explore. Cornwall’s cozy cafes also offer local produce, the best seafood, and a taste of Cornwall’s wine.

Norfolk is also a city almost surrounded by water, and it is a no-brainer seafood haven. But that is not the only thing to see here; it is known for its Chrysler Museum of Art and Glass Studio where it showcases robust European painting collections and thousands of glasses that span nearly three thousand years. Indoor activity is not the only activity available. Tourists can also hop on a bike or walk along the 10.5-mile Elizabeth River Trail. The historic Freemason District and nearby neighborhoods are tourist-friendly areas too.

Known for its impressive street art, Briston offers a taste of a vibrant city that is perfect for a solo stroll. Eat some and feel good because this city is also home to a number of vegetarian restaurants. Aside from veggie food , tourists should not miss the taste of Asian foods that are particularly comforting to many locals in the city. If tourists simply want a quiet place to relax, there are various coffee shops in the city that provide that atmosphere.

6 Edinburgh

With its low crime rate, Edinburgh is the best place to begin a solo adventure. In fact, it’s one of the safest cities in the UK. There are many things to explore in Scotland’s capital, from its popular museums to historic castles, tourists won’t have time to see everything. As one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its infrastructures are filled with the history of some towns dating back to Medieval times. Tourists don’t have to go far to get immersed in Edinburgh’s natural attractions, especially because Holyrood Park is only a walk away!

RELATED: These Hidden Gems In Scotland Will Have You Rethinking Edinburgh

True to its name, this city is known for its natural hot spring waters that were converted into baths by the Romans. These Roman Baths date back to 2,000 years ago and are some of the most popular sites to be visited in the city. Bath’s gardens have the best views that are perfect spots for a lovely walk or alone time. Tourists can even choose to extend their tours from the Bath City Farm where animals can be seen up close. Tourists can also take a boat ride along the canals where champagne or afternoon tea can be enjoyed during the ride.

Related: Your Guide To Exploring Fabled Bath England

This city might seem impossible to explore alone, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy solo. A stop by at London’s pastry shops is one of the favorite things tourists enjoy. The sugar rush from these treats can definitely help boost one’s energy! After a quick stop at a pastry shop, tourists will have enough energy to explore all of the city’s popular destinations, which include several Harry Potter locations, museums that are completely free to visit, and cruises along the River Thames. London also has impressive infrastructures like the Tower Bridge and the Shard. There, tourists can get an amazing view at its peak.

Scotland’s largest city possesses a long history and offers many fun things to do that are best enjoyed alone. Glasgow is known for its gothic architecture, Medieval and Victorian buildings and their lively lifestyles made evident through sports and music. Exquisite tours around Glasgow Cathedral and Kelvingrove museum provide a glimpse of the city’s history. Harry Potter fans should definitely check out Glasgow University, the popular wizard school, where the legendary movie was filmed. Offering a wide range of fashion styles, Buchanan Street is the shopping go-to in Glasgow that tourists definitely enjoy.

2 Lake District

Lake District is popularly known for its outdoor activities that most solo travelers will definitely enjoy. Most tourists visit the region to explore its biggest attractions, the 16 lakes with Lake Windermere being the most popular. In addition, there are the adventure activities like hiking, climbing, and mountain biking to the spectacular views of the lakes. And for soloists who want to experience the lively nightlife, they can visit local English pubs and get a taste of the popular local beer.

The city is home to quaint attractions and filled with historic sites, thanks to the Vikings who founded Dublin in the 9th century. From countless museums to various libraries, solo tourists will be short of things to do. It is also very easy to get acquainted in Dublin, as it is known to have the friendliest locals. Get a taste of a classic pub meal from traditional pubs such as steak and Guinness pie. And of course, a visit to an Irish city would not be complete without a taste of Irish ale!

NEXT: The Perfect Itinerary For A Day In Dublin

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15 brilliant autumn UK breaks for solo travellers, couples or small groups

Part one We pick trips that take in beautiful scenery, adventurous activities, fab food, stargazing, wellness and great places to stay.

Autumn breaks part two

Solo travellers: Chase the stars, Northumberland Unforeseen confinement this year has encouraged many of us to look to the skies for escapism, and stargazing has never seemed like a more appealing hobby. For night skies the colour of tar, there is no better place in the UK than Northumberland – home to Europe’s largest dark sky park, the Kielder Observatory and dark-sky-friendly accommodation options such as Beacon Hill Farm.

Solo astro-fans can book one of its contemporary shepherd’s huts, with a woodburning stove, plus quick access to the farm’s spa and private observatory. There’s still some availability during October and more in November. Two-night stay from £ 268, beaconhill.co.uk

Couples: new spa hotel with the Peak District as your playground, Derbyshire

Known in antiquity as Aquae Arnemetiae, or the Spa of the Goddess of the Grove, Buxton’s natural warm springs have been attracting visitors since Roman times. Now the town is revitalising its reputation as a thermal spa destination with the opening of the Buxton Crescent. Set in a magnificent Georgian building the 81-room hotel opens on 1 October and will focus on water wellness with three pools – including a refurbished Victorian pool and eight treatment rooms. The town’s location on the edge of the Peak District means a stay here comes with adventure on the doorstep whether it’s a gentle stroll through the woods of the National Trust’s Longshaw estate or the more challenging hikes around Kinder Scout. Walking is just for starters, of course. Rock climbing, caving, abseiling, cycling and orienteering are among the many ways visitors can experience the moorlands, hills and valleys. From £125 B&B per night based on two people sharing an Attic Room on a B&B basis, ensanahotels.com/buxton/en

Small groups: Bike around a druid’s temple, Yorkshire Dales

Right on the edge of Yorkshire’s ale-brewing heartland (Black Sheep and Theakston are just a country amble away in Masham), Swinton Park Estate has developed its 20,000 acres of hilly moorland and forest for the use of mountain bikers and road cyclists. The Tour de France passed through here in 2014, and the trails range from family-friendly green routes to black runs. Groups can stay in the country estate’s off-grid Bivouac site, which has bike storage and cleaning facilities close to the trails and a woodland druid’s temple. There’s still availability in the private loft bunkhouse or a comfy treehouse this October. Five-night treehouse stay for six from 4-9 October costs £645, swintonestate.com

Families: Dive wartime shipwrecks, Orkney

Even the most hard-to-please teen will appreciate the bragging rights of diving second world war shipwrecks in the North Sea. And it’s easier than you might think: the Padi Discover Scuba Diving Experience with Orkney’s Kraken Diving school offers a half-day of scuba activity around the wreck-littered natural harbour of Scapa Flow. It’s suitable for children over 10, and there’s an educational benefit too – the school works on marine conservation with Project AWARE . Autumn is also the time to spot seal pups and migrating birds around the wild shores of Orkney, and families visiting during Scotland’s mid-term break can catch the end of this year’s socially distanced Orkney Storytelling Festival (22-25 October). Essentials Discover Scuba Diving package costs £90 pp ; a week at Scapa Flow Lodges in a two-bed house from 24 October costs £520, scapaflow-lodges.co.uk

Foodie escapes

Solo travellers: Forage for truffles, Dorset

English truffles are the underdog of the European truffle scene, but in recent years there’s been renewed interest in these knobbly delicacies. September marks the start of the season, and the English Truffle Company will be taking small groups into woodland glades to find truffles with a hound, followed by a truffle-laced lunch. There’s just one space left on the first trip of the season on 26 September in Dorset – snap this up and you can stitch together a DIY solo foodie weekend around the Jurassic Coast. Walk the salt-white cliffs above Durdle Door, grab a locally sourced lunch at The Pig on the Beach and stay overnight at the Brewers Arms country pub (£90 a night). Truffle experience trips, including locations near Salisbury and Basingstoke, run until January. Truffle experience days cost £165, englishtruffles.co.uk

Couples: Dine on Michelin-starred grub, Yorkshire Dales

When head chef Michael Wignall took over at the Angel in the Dales hamlet of Hetton in 2018, it was a sign of great things to come. The 15th-century inn was gutted to create a cool, contemporary dining space and within 18 months the chef, formerly of Michelin-starred Latymer Restaurant in Surrey and Gidleigh Park in Devon, among others, received his own star. There are 13 country-classic rooms surrounding the restaurant, some of which are housed in a barn overlooking Rylstone Fell, and there’s still some October dates if you’re flexible. Three-course dinner, bed & breakfast for two costs from £265, angelhetton.co.uk

Small groups: Wander greedily through Wordsworth country, Lake District

Food is becoming as big a deal as the local daffodil-spotting poet in Cumbria’s Lake District. And right now it’s an ideal getaway for groups of food lovers, since it’s one area of the UK that still has good self-catering availability this autumn. After visiting Wordsworth’s newly reopened Dove Cottage (2020 marks the 250th anniversary of his birth), try the Michelin-starred Forest Side in Grasmere, where the kitchen specialises in foraged edibles. Then try foraging for yourselves on a private tour with Galloway Wild Foods ; autumn is funghi season. Finish up at Simon Rogan’s appealingly informal Henrock restaurant in Bowness, which opened last year as an adjunct to the chef’s Cartmel mini-empire. Seven-day stay at the four-bedroom cottage in Cartmel costs £710 , sykescottages.co.uk

Families: Take a wild food walk, Cornwall

When you book a trip with the Family Foraging Kitchen, a percentage of the profits goes towards providing wild food walks or cooking classes for locals living in food poverty. The company’s bespoke guided foraging walks lead families into south-east Cornwall’s woodlands, splashing into rock pools and rummaging through hedgerows. Walks take place on the Rame peninsula, as yet largely undiscovered by tourists, across the estuary from Plymouth. Nearby Whitsand Bay Fort has a three-bedroom, sea-view cottage with a hot tub (three nights for £585 in October half-term). Private foraging walks cost from £150 for six, familyforagingkitchen.co.uk Lorna Parkes

For a treat

Solo travellers: A belated festival, Brighton

The Covid-19 crisis put paid to virtually all festivals this year but a scaled-down version of Brighton Fringe , which normally takes place in May, has been rescheduled for October. Expect a mix of outdoor events (including a Greek tragedy performed in an illuminated garden), exhibitions, comedy and some livestreamed events, including a charity quiz. On the seafront near the i360 tower and the remains of the West Pier, the new Selina Brighton travel hub has a chilled vibe and offers a variety of rooms suited to solo travellers (from £55 a night), as well as couples and families. Activities, including paddleboarding lessons and free yoga sessions, are posted daily while community-minded guests can join a Sunday morning beach clean. The hotel’s casual dining restaurant and bar The Old Pier does a fantastic brunch and hosts live acts, and The Lanes, North Laine and Royal Pavilion are all nearby. Various ticket prices (discounts and offers available), brightonfringe.org

Couples: Find your sparkle in a vineyard, East Sussex

Occupying a plum spot in the rolling South Downs, Rathfinny Wine Estate, where vines were first planted in 2012, produces a fine sparkling wine. This year, as part of an overnight tasting and picking experience, guests can help out with the harvest while learning about the winemaking processes and the chalky terroir that give the fizz its unique flavour. The package includes a tour, tasting and picking experience with accommodation for two (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights) at the estate’s historic Flint Barn buildings, set in the Cradle Valley. Dinner takes the form of a harvest pop-up, with dishes including lemon sole cooked over last year’s vines on an open fire. Leave time to potter about the picture-postcard village of Alfriston, reached via the Rathfinny Trail. From £210 a night for two guests including a breakfast box, dinner and 90-minute grape picking tour with tasting (available from 13 October-5 November), rathfinnyestate.com

Families: Truly glam glamping, Herefordshire

How many children can return to school saying they spent half-term in a vintage Airstream? At The Wells Glamping in Herefordshire, parents will be impressed with the fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms, while the kids’ focus may be more on the digital TVs, USB-connected sound systems and six-person hot tubs for hire – and pack the marshmallows, because there are fire pits too. The Airstreams are located in a meadow 30 miles from the Welsh border, and within half an hour’s drive you can reach the Malvern Hills, the towns of Great Malvern and Ledbury, the neo-classical Berrington Hall, and Brockhampton – a traditionally farmed estate and medieval manor house. A week in a five-berth Airstream costs from £960 during half-term, or three nights from £480, coolcamping.com

Small groups: An indulgent base for exploring the valleys and uplands of mid-Wales

Ty Hedfan (the hovering house) in the village of Pont-Faen is a Grand Designs-style property built as a family home but now available as a four-bedroom holiday rental. Perched above the River Ysgir, with floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary styling and plenty of space for entertaining, it’s an indulgent space for exploring the surrounding valleys and ridges. To the south, parts of the Brecon Beacons national park such as Waterfall Country have become very busy since lockdown but there are many other routes to explore including the high ground of the less visited Mynydd Epynt area to the north and the Black Mountains of Monmouthshire and Powys. Owner Sarah – of architect firm Featherstone Young which designed the property – recommends a visit to Farmer’s Lavender farm – peak time for lavender is mid-summer but you can visit year round. The house is also within striking distance of some of Wale’s best gastro pubs such as The Griffin at FelinFach and the Walnut Tree near Abergavenny. Three nights mid-week, sleeping six, costs £900 , ty-hedfan.co.uk , (limited availability before Christmas). Teresa Machan

Solo travellers: Thatch and therapies, Dorset

Based in a 17 th -century thatched farmhouse Middle Piccadilly is a family-run healing centre in Holwell in rural Dorset that’s particularly geared up for solo visitors. With no set retreat dates, stays are tailored to suit; simply choose a detox, vegetarian or raw food option and add treatments from seaweed soaks to Indian head massages, after a consultation with a therapist. There are all-inclusive packages too, from three to 14 nights, with the new three-night “emergence retreat” particularly popular. Designed to help bring people back to balance, it includes reiki energy healing, shamanic therapy and a mud bath. Owner and chef Dominic Harvey prepares nutritious meals (with lots of homegrown produce), and there’s a maximum of nine guests in five simple but comfortable rooms. From £490 for the three-night emergence retreat including vegetarian full-board and all treatments, middlepiccadilly.com

Couples: Privacy and pampering, Lake District

Take time to reconnect with nature and each other on a Couples Wellness Retreat in the Lake District. Accommodation is in a cosy barn – complete with beamed ceilings, woodburner and super-kingsize bed – on Sunny Brow Farm, a 13-hectare hideaway in Outgate, near Ambleside, in the national park. There are beautiful woodland grounds for wandering and plentiful walks on the doorstep. The weekend package (available until the end of December) includes two yoga classes, a couple’s massage, guided meditation and wholesome brunches and evening meals. Owned and run by Suzy Saunders, a holistic therapist, yoga teacher and chef, the retreat is carefully designed to offer a winning combination of privacy and pampering. Regular group yoga holidays are also held at the farm – or couples can tailor their own retreat by booking a barn and treatments separately. From £700 per couple for three nights with all food, therapies and classes, bookyogaretreats.com

Small groups: Holistic health but with cake, Peak District

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Whether you’re looking for a city break or a few days by the beach.

For obvious reasons, the past year and a half has seen a huge rise in interest in staycations. UK-based vacation rental company Independent Cottages, for example, has experienced an increase of 300% in bookings , while the term “staycation” saw year-over-year growth of over 500% in 2020 , according to Statista. And even when some travel restrictions were lifted for a short period last year, the holiday destination with the highest year-on-year growth on Google was in still the UK . Brits are booking in their close-to-home holidays like never before, and as COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc across the globe, perhaps this trend is here to stay(cation) (sorry).

Right now, group sizes for domestic holidays in England are limited to six people or two households. The same goes for Northern Ireland . In Scotland, the numbers are a little higher – depending on what “Level” your destination is in. Wales , on the other hand, has stated that “all holiday accommodation is now able to fully open” and it’s likely the other three nations will follow suit within the next few months. However, despite restrictions lifting, some people may still be nervous to travel in groups. Or perhaps after a year of getting used to our own company will see an increase in solo holidays. Either way, if you like the sound of a mini break that you can enjoy all to yourself, the UK is actually a great place to travel alone.

Some practical advice before you starting planning: UK holiday accommodation is booking up fast , even for 2022, so if you want to go anywhere anytime soon, I’d get booking. And planning ahead will also help lower the cost of train travel, which can be pretty extortionate at times. Make sure you look around lots of different trainline sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Plus – of course – always check the government website for COVID guidance and make sure your accommodation has a decent cancellation period.

All of this practical stuff aside, there are some really stunning areas of the UK that offer culture, amazing food, friendly locals, and unrivalled scenery. Here are a pick of the best.

From a great food scene to some impressive street art, Bristol is a great alternative if you want a taste of vibrant city life without stepping foot in London. If you want to see something really special, check out the International Balloon Fiesta, which runs in August. Swing by in the summer months to embrace Bristol life and enjoy all the city has to offer.

Lake District

The Lake District is a place I would recommend everybody to go, no matter your age, taste, or time limit. Not only does it offer the perfect sample of life in the English countryside, the scenery is amazing, and the people are super friendly, meaning going on your own is really no big deal. You can get some amazing Airbnbs in The Lake District in areas such as Cumbria.

There are so many things to do and see in Bath. I'd recommend finding a cute little Airbnb just outside of town, booking in for an afternoon at the Thermae Spa ( they do some great packages ), taking the roman bath tour, and finishing the day with a meal and ale at The Chequers pub.

The Cotswolds

Having recently visited The Cotswolds myself, I feel confident in recommending it for solo travellers. It's quintessentially British, and super safe. Hire yourself a car and book in at Mollie's Motel & Diner, just outside of Oxfordshire. The motel, which was created by the same minds behind Soho House, offers simple yet stylish rooms complete with Cowshed products. Eat breakfast at the diner before driving down the The Cotswolds (about a 40-minute drive) to explore little villages such as Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bourton-on-the-Hill.

Tenby in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a cute little seaside town that has buckets of charm. Grab yourself an Airbnb on the seafront, take a coastal walk, and enjoy the best of British in terms of food, from ice cream aplenty to oodles of fish and chips. The people are super friendly here, meaning you can feel safe and at home, even if you’re on your ones.

A short distance from London, Brighton is easy to travel to for a day trip, or as a longer stay. Get lost in The Lanes (a cute little shopping area) before heading down to the seaside and indulging in some local fish and chips. Brighton locals are very friendly, making it a great place to visit alone.

Belfast has so much to offer, and history lovers will be especially impressed with the various Titanic monuments and museums around the city and the stunning architecture at every turn. Plus, if you’ve got the time, you could even take a little road trip to Derry and along to the Giant’s Causeway – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and certified Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Cornwall is a super chilled out place that will be perfect for the solo traveller looking for a little down time. With beautiful beaches, delicious Cornish ice cream, and friendly locals, you can't go wrong with a quick trip here. Go for a hike, and be sure to visit The Watering Hole, which is the only bar on a beach in the UK.

Now I may be a little biased here (I went to The University Of Nottingham), but Nottingham is a great place to visit alone. There are tons of shops and places to eat, lots of pretty scenery, and an amazing main Uni campus, which is surrounded by lakes and impressive old buildings. Visit the vegetarian and vegan eatery Alley Cafe, and don't miss out on the night life, which is legendary.

Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music , meaning it’s a must for music lovers, and is full of lively events. As well as great food too, there are plenty of gorgeous parks and botanical gardens, and if you fancy a long hike, Trossachs National Park is just an hour away.

One of the most popular staycay spots, Devon has plenty of great options for some time on your own. Croyde is a beautiful village with sandy beaches (check out Putsborough) cute little pubs, too. Plus it’s just an hour’s drive to Dartmoor National Park, which is homes to river valleys, moorlands, and unique wildlife.

The Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is another hugely popular British destination, and one look on Instagram will tell you why: this small isle connected to Scotland’s northwest coast by bridge has some incredible landscapes and scenery. Portree looks like a lovely town to visit by yourself, and is full of harbourside pubs and shops to fill your time with. If you’re a big Airbnb person who always likes to find the most amazing destinations, the Isle Of Skye is the perfect place to look thanks to its many options. You may even get lucky and see the Northern Lights.

This article was originally published on March 27, 2019

Best UK cities to visit and enjoy alone

You don’t have to fly to far-flung destinations to enjoy the excitement of solo travel. In fact, for first-time solo travellers, trying out a trip by yourself in your home country, where you speak the language and where travel is quick and easy, may be the best way to dip your toe into the water.

There are many fantastic UK cities with thrilling cultural attractions and natural sites to explore. Here is our list of some of the best UK cities for solo travellers.

The best UK cities to travel to alone

With an impressive castle, extensive cityscape panoramas from Arthur’s Seat and excellent museums, Edinburgh is a great city to visit solo any time of the year. But, if you’re looking for something special, visit Edinburgh in August where comedy, theatre, dance, art and music artists descend on the city for the annual Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Lonely Planet named the Fringe this year’s top experience in the UK, and nothing makes you feel more a part of a community than shared laughter.

There are hundreds of participating venues, as well as street entertainment, so book ahead for affordable hotel accommodation and to secure a seat to see spectacular performances from world-renowned artists and comedians.    

For a relaxing break away from the stresses of daily life, take a solo trip to this picturesque, historic city to enjoy its impressive 18th-century architecture and fantastic shopping opportunities.

Constructed around 70-75AD, the Roman Baths are well worth exploring. Visit them to find out more about how the Romans used the geothermally heated mineral water from the Mendip Hills to create a bathing pool for socialising.

Next, head to Thermae Bath Spa, which combines a historic spa with a contemporary building with an ice chamber, steam rooms, an infrared room and an open-air thermal pool on the roof. 

From high-street brands in the SouthGate shopping centre to quaint antique stores and clothing boutiques in arcades such as The Corridor, Bath also offers the opportunity for a spot of retail therapy once you’re feeling truly relaxed.

Picturesque settings, a wealth of independent B&Bs and plentiful coastal adventures are just waiting to be enjoyed throughout Cornwall. Stay in its quaint city, Truro to admire the cathedral, enjoy authentic Cornish ice cream and eat traditional pasties from the independent bakeries. Truro’s location means it’s a great base from which to explore the abundance the stunning coastline. Visit peaceful harbour towns, admire Land’s End and gaze in awe at the rugged cliffs at Lizard Point.

There are fantastic guided adventure excursions you can join. The Cornish c oast is a great location for kayaking and paddleboarding, and is also the UK's premier surfing hotspot. Beginners can take surfing lessons on Newquay’s Towan Beach, while the pros head to sandy Fistral Beach to shoot tubes. Once you’re ready, hire boards from the seafront and venture to some of the many surfing hotspots across the coast, such as Holywell Bay, Polzeath Beach and Porthmeor Beach in St Ives.

If you want to experience some of the best cities in the UK for solo travel, take a look at our solo traveller deals to find the right break for you.

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Eight best solo holiday destinations in the UK for a singles getaway

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After building up the courage to holiday alone, the punishing sting of a singles’ supplement often added to accommodation and tours is a feeling solo travellers know all too well. Thankfully, unique adventures in the UK and its islands don’t always have to come with a steep price increase when holidaying as a party of one, with perks including travelling light and squeezing into that last spot on the train thrown in for free.

Whether a social break to make new friends on escorted tours or heading out alone for a stay in solitude, there’s something for every single traveller on trips to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. From solo sports to hiking holidays and skills retreats, from historic cities to literary and cultural domestic breaks, going it alone enables you to indulge in your passions – no compromise required.

Here’s  The Independent’s  selection of ideas to help inspire your next lone adventure.

Read more on UK travel :

• Seven of the best walks in Cornwall
• Brighton city guide: where to stay, eat, drink and shop in Britain’s iconic seaside town
• 10 of the most unusual surf stays in the UK

Best for: Golfers

Location: kent, england.

Golf is one of the UK’s most loved individual sports for good reason. Single players of all ages can focus on their swing without distractions, to take on – and hopefully beat – personal records on the course during weekend escapes across the UK.

Solos Holidays  offers a two-night UK golf getaway to the Kent countryside, just outside Maidstone, including two morning tee times for rounds on the 18-hole Garden of England course. Expect to stay and play in the comfort of Delta Hotels by Marriott Tudor Park Country Club’s on-site champion golf course (which also has spa facilities). Prices for the solo sports trip start from £539pp, half board, including a golf-tour leader and a course par of 70.

Best for: Surfing

Location: isle of wight, england.

Surfing , while a very sociable sport, takes individual effort and a laid-back lifestyle to master – ideal for beach bums who enjoy their own company.

Surfs up at Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight’s west coast, an exposed beach with reliable surf and breaks that peak in the winter. The popular spot gets winds from the southeast and northwest and surf schools including  Eddie’s Surf Academy  are on-hand to teach beginners how to get up on the board. In general, the island is well suited to single travellers; hop on the ferry from Yarmouth as a foot passenger for around £15.60.

Where to stay

Tom’s Eco Pods on Tapnell Farm feature a double bed, al-fresco dining and sunset views over West Wight ideal for a party of one after a long day of catching waves. Compton Bay is just a 10-minute drive from the site; Eco pods from £160 a night

Best for: Island hopping

Location: orkney islands, scotland.

Solo travellers to  Scotland  can immerse themselves in the wild solitude of the  Orkney Islands  – although the remarkable environment guarantees you’ll never be far from myriad species of birds and marine life. Sail across to this spectacular archipelago by hopping on the ferry at Aberdeen, Scrabster or Gills Bay.

Intrepid Travel  offers a five-day trip to experience the whisky and Neolithic history of the UK’s northern reaches from £1,450pp. As a group tour, single travellers will share a twin room with someone like-minded and of the same gender – a great opportunity to meet some new friendly faces. The Orkney Islands holiday includes all breakfasts, one lunch, transport, accommodation and activities packaged with a knowledgable local guide.

Best for: Learning a new skill

Location: east sussex, england.

There’s nothing quite like coming home from holiday with a tan, but with the UK’s predictably unpredictable weather, solo trips centred around self-development, learning new skills or mastering a craft can be a safer bet than heading to the beach.

Fire & Wild’s  “Cooking with Fire” experiences include a guided foraging walk, game butchery and a fire skills workshop in an outdoor forest kitchen. Guests are guided through the process of cooking with seasonal ingredients, such as venison and wild mushrooms, from the surrounding land. The five-hour experience in a private woodland in Ringmer costs £225pp and participants will leave familiar with new skills, including back-to-basics cooking over an open fire.

Tiny Cottage in Lewes offers a compact chalet fitted with quirky decor, one bedroom and a garden terrace perfect for relaxing after a day of foraging and fire skills.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, best for: relaxation, location: newport, wales.

The epitome of “me time”, a spa staycation is the perfect opportunity to lounge by the pool with a new book and start taking self-care seriously. Escape the stresses of everyday life at spas across the UK, from city sanctuaries to countryside retreats and holistic wellness resorts with trendy treatments.

A stay at  Celtic Manor Resort  in Newport lends itself to do-not-disturb mode thanks to its award-winning Forum Spa. Boasting 16 treatment rooms, the Welsh bolthole offers facial, body and sensory indulgence as part of the ultimate pamper experience for one, as well as a sauna, steam room, spa bath and 20-metre swimming pool. The “ Sunday Spa Stayover ” package from £154pp includes an overnight stay at Celtic Manor Resort, breakfast and a spa treatment.

Best for: Walking holidays

Location: hadrian’s wall, england.

Walking holidays in the UK are ideal for single travellers looking to explore the country’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and improve their health and fitness levels. Ramble through fields, castle ruins and ancient waterfalls, whether on a self-guided stroll or an escorted group tour.

Intrepid Travel  offers a seven-day hike of historic Hadrian’s Wall in the heart of the English countryside. Journey coast to coast from Carlisle to Hexham, stopping at Roman ruins and English villages dotted between a range of terrains. The holiday includes all breakfasts, six nights in twin-share accommodation and transport, from £1,130pp.

Best for: Photography

Location: cornwall, england.

For those who love to view the world through a lens, UK photography workshops as a single traveller create the ideal conditions for the perfect shot. Free from distractions and chatter, get up close and personal with wildlife or patiently wait for the best light to pull off a long-exposure shot at your own pace.

Paul David Smith Photography  offers a three-day landscape photography holiday and workshop in Newquay, Cornwall for £495pp. The trip includes all transport, small groups of no more than four and one-to-one photography tuition. Gain experience snapping beaches and seascapes in England’s southernmost county and mine Paul’s advanced knowledge of composition, lighting and editing over a long weekend.

Trewinda Lodge  in Newquay is just a five-minute stroll from the seafront and features coastal decor and single rooms for solo travellers.

Best for: Literary indulgence

Location: lake district, england.

The UK’s rich literary history makes it a hotspot for holidays inspired by the written word. Be it Harry Potter fans searching for platform nine and three-quarters in King’s Cross Station or Shakespeare lovers following his journey from Stratford-upon-Avon to London, stays in idyllic settings dedicated to reading and literature are on the rise.

HF Holidays  now hosts a crime and thrillers staycation in the northern Lake District. Think free-flowing discussions with like-minded readers and expert book club leaders. Spend four nights at Derwent Bank for £629pp, including en-suite accommodation, all meals and a cream tea on arrival day. Bookworms rejoice – book club just got an upgrade... 

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A Guide to Travelling the UK Solo

UK solo travel can be the starting point for many to dip their toes into the waters of adventure. While the climate is cooler, the landscapes are to be admired and the locals are on hand to direct the way when you lose your bearings. But where do you start? With four countries making up Great Britain, it can be a lot of ground to cover for a solo traveller. Our guide to solo travelling the British Isles dives into what you need to know before booking your place on the plane. Coming up in this guide:

Why Travel Solo in the UK?

• UK Destinations to Visit When Travelling Alone
• Top Tips for Solo Travelling to the UK

How to Travel Solo Around the UK

The UK, with its diverse cultural landscapes, serves as the perfect canvas for touring as solo adventurers . Here, you can wander at your own pace, set your itinerary, and delve into the depths of your curiosity, all the while enjoying an array of experiences. Whether it's diving into the landscape's history, savouring the local cuisine, or engaging with the locals. Solo travel in the UK is more than just a journey, it's a chance to reconnect with yourself while discovering the world outside. But we understand that the idea of travelling alone for the first time can sometimes feel overwhelming. Which is why, once you take the plunge, you realise it’s a beautiful symphony of freedom and self-discovery. We like to think you’re never truly alone. There are so many people following the same path that you walk, which can be reassuring in small moments of doubt. Sharing our experiences through our solo travel guides can be the perfect starting point to helping you figure out your first steps. From booking your first trip, to combining a holiday with a small-group tour , we can help navigate the way.

Which UK Destinations are Best for Solo Travellers?

Knowing the best solo travel destinations to visit while in the UK can make planning your holiday a lot easier.

Touring around Scotland on your UK solo travels feels like stepping into an enchanting storybook. It's where the misty highlands meet the majestic castles, and the city's heartbeat synchronises with folk tales. Whether you let the wild and untouched Isle of Skye unfold its beauty before your eyes, or you delve into the age-old mysteries of Loch Ness , Scotland's sheer natural beauty, blended with its rich history, makes it a paradise for solo travellers when visiting the UK. Be sure to check out our Scottish solo travel guide for a more in-depth view into the locations you can visit.

• To experience the wild and mystical mountain location of Scotland, book a tour of the Scottish Highlands
• Love Outlander ? Pretend to be your favourite character on one of our Outlander tours
• Tempted to try the finest whisky in the world? We may be biassed, but you’ll only know if you book onto one of our whisky tours  

When travelling solo in the UK, an England tour is a must. A location where past meets present, cities hum with vibrant energy, and tranquillity finds a home in the countryside. From the pulsating heart of the capital, London, to the serene idyll of The Lake District , England showcases a delightful contrast no matter where your internal compass directs you. Explore the birthplace of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon , wander through the architecturally stunning lanes of Oxford and Cambridge, or immerse yourself in the timeless charm of York. Travelling the UK solo, you can take a step back in time as you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Bath on a tour , where an age-old charm has been beautifully preserved in the face of modernity. Here in England, each winding alley, every bustling town square and quiet hamlet unfold like pages from a riveting novel, captivating the solo traveller's heart and feeding their curiosity.

• For nature photography lovers, booking a trip to The Lake District will leave you stunned by the quantity of gorgeous views
• If you like to incorporate the golden sand and rocky coves on your holidays, look to book a tour of Devon and Cornwall
• For charming hamlets and country pubs, you’d enjoy a tour of The Cotswolds  

Northern Ireland

Be captivated by tours of Northern Ireland . Where culture springs from every corner, natural beauty abounds, and the urban landscapes echo stories of resilience. Explore the hallowed walls of Derry, feel the myths come alive at the Giant's Causeway, or tour Belfast’s dynamic cityscape . This corner of the world is a journey through time, a place where stories are written into the land, welcoming the UK solo traveller with a pint of Guinness and a tale to tell. If you have time, why not explore more of what Ireland can offer when travelling the UK solo? Our tours from Dublin and Belfast allow you access to the history soaked streets, the pub-ridden alleys, and all the beauty of the authentic emerald isle. Ready to go?

• If you’re looking to explore the West Coast of Ireland, our Wild Atlantic Way tours can be the perfect experience
• For Irish trips including heritage, beautiful beaches, and local stories, look no further than our Dingle Peninsula tours
• If you want to experience a must-see Irish landmark, with the addition of seabirds and spectacular views, book one of our Cliffs of Moher tours  

Tour Wales when you take part in a British solo travel adventure. A land where legends are born, heroes are long remembered, and the landscapes sing of centuries past. Roam the electric streets of Cardiff with its perfect blend of history and modernity, witness the all encompassing view of Snowdonia National Park, or fade into the history of ruined castles on a castle tour . Unfold Wales like a storybook on your UK solo travels, each page more captivating than the last. Ready to write your own story?

• To experience nature's natural beauty in all its glory, you’ll not want to miss our tours of Snowdonia
• If you're travelling out of peak, in the cooler months, and want to experience the beauty of the UK, discover our winter tours available to book for 2023/2024
• Been on a Rabbie’s small-group tour before and want to try something new? Explore our new tours and departure points to find a holiday to remember

5 Top Tips for Solo Travelling to the UK

Embarking on a solo adventure in the British Isles can be an exhilarating experience, offering a sense of freedom that is rarely matched. But it also invites its own unique set of challenges. To help you navigate this exciting journey, here are some solo travel tips designed to enhance your UK adventure, keeping it as smooth as it is memorable.

• Bring a jacket no matter the season - Solo travellers visiting the UK for the first time should understand from the offset that the weather can be… unpredictable. Whether you tour in autumn , the summer, or in time for the Spring equinox , a jacket can help to brave off the rain or provide light protection from the warming sun.
• Connect with locals - You’ll discover that travelling solo in Great Britain doesn't mean travelling alone. Quite the contrary. This land thrives on a sense of community, enveloping even the lone traveller in its warm embrace. While in the country, connect with cheery locals who love to share tales and laughter over a pint at the local pub. And remember, an open ear is the key to this companionship.
• Prioritise safety - Safety can be one of the most important aspects of UK solo travel, especially true for solo female travellers. Stay in well-trafficked and well-lit areas, especially at night. Share your itinerary with someone you trust, and keep emergency contacts handy. It’s not about painting a picture of fear, it’s about smart and safe travels.
• UK currency - The UK uses great British pounds with the addition of Euros in Ireland (GBP / EURO). You can exchange money before arriving, if flying from overseas, and be sure to look around for the best exchange rate. Currency converter tools can be helpful to shop around for the best deal before your holiday.
• Best time to visit - The best time to visit Great Britain on a solo trip can be in the summer season. The weather is warm and inviting and many outdoor attractions can stay open for longer due to natural lighting. However, Spring (late March to early June) or Autumn (September to November) can also be an ideal time to visit if you want a more peaceful experience. The weather can be dry and as it's out of peak season it may not be as crowded at tourist hotspots.

Remember, travelling solo in the UK is all about pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and embracing new perspectives. You have the power to script your own journey and the thrill lies in finding your own path. So why wait?

Travelling around the British Isles as a solo traveller can be relatively easy. With the vast array of public transport connections across the countries, or booking on a small-group tour, you can cover multiple destinations over a short period of time.

Feel Companionship on Small-Group Tours

At Rabbie's, we believe that solo travel doesn't mean travelling alone. Our small-group tours offer the safety and camaraderie of a group while retaining the freedom of solo travel. And it’s not just the UK you can explore. Our teams tour Europe , providing the beautiful landscapes of Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland. Experience our warmth as we guide you through the offbeat paths, challenge your perspectives with our stories, and ignite your curiosity with our unique itineraries. What are you waiting for?

Follow Independence on Public Transport

​​The UK boasts an extensive and efficient public transport system. Be it the iconic London Underground, the vast railway network, or the numerous bus services, getting around is easy. Learn about the train stations in England and the train stations in Scotland to help plan your route effectively.

Expand Your Horizons with Rabbie’s

If you're feeling that anticipatory thrill of embarking on a UK solo travel journey, you're on the right track. It's normal to feel a flutter of nerves, but let’s help transform that into sheer excitement. With our team, planning isn't a chore, it's the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. So, to all our solo explorers out there, it's time to go beyond the conventional, uncover the hidden, and live like the locals. Stay updated with our latest tours and departure points by signing up for our newsletter . We make sure that your solo UK travels becomes not just a trip, but an enchanting story worth sharing.

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50+ Fun Things To Do In London Alone

By Amber Primdahl & Jessie Festa. This guide on how to enjoy a solo trip to London contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for fun things to do in London alone ?

Then you’re in the right place, as that is exactly what we’ll be covering in this travel guide!

Some people worry about potentially feeling lonely or bored while traveling solo; however, that’s not going to be possible on a trip to London, England.

There is so much to do for the solo traveler in London, and there truly is something for everyone, whether you’re looking to explore art, culture, history, nature, food, views, or opportunities to get off the main tourist trail.

To help with the planning, this list of 50+ fun things to do in London solo shares must-do experiences for a truly unforgettable trip — even if you’re exploring on your own.

Quick tip: While London is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Enjoy Solo Travel In London With Confidence [Free Course]

Now, before we dive into our guide to fun things to do on your own in London , we invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to travel solo and take amazing selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on for our solo London travel guide.

Why London Is Perfect For Solo Travel

There are many reasons why London is a great destination for those traveling on their own.

First of all, there are loads of unforgettable things to do solo in London , meaning you’ll never get bored and will have fun traveling alone .

Plus, as it’s one of the most popular destinations in the world, it makes it easier to meet other travelers if you’d like to find a friend to explore with. Some tips for meeting other travelers include:

• take a walking tour ( like these )
• attend local meetups (CouchSurfing and Meetup.com are helpful resources)
• book an interactive class (like this tea tasting masterclass )
• opt for a shared Airbnb or hostel (many of which have private rooms)

London is also incredibly easy to get around. No need to rent a car or take expensive taxis, as the city’s budget-friendly public transportation system can get you anywhere you need to go.

And while you should always use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, London is considered a very safe city.

Tips For Traveling Alone in London

As previously stated, London is overall a safe place to travel alone. That being said, here are a few extra tips to help you avoid any potential safety issues and have a great experience.

-Keep an eye on your belongings at all times. For example, when you’re sitting down to eat, don’t leave your phone casually on the table.

-Be aware of pickpocketing in busy places. If you’re watching street performers or are on a crowded train, be sure that you’re still paying attention to your stuff and try to keep your bag in front of you. You don’t have to be paranoid, but be alert and know a few ways to avoid pickpockets .

-As with any place, don’t wander around alone in secluded areas — especially at night. Trust your gut if an area feels iffy. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

-Don’t carry all of your money on you in case you get pickpocketed while you’re out. Keep extra cards and cash in more than one place.

-Have photocopies of your important documents like passport and driver’s license. In case your things go missing or get stolen, you want to have some proof of who you are. It could also be a good idea to email copies of these documents to yourself or upload them onto a cloud storage system to access in case of an emergency. 

-Taking transit is the best way to get around the city, so skip the taxis and Ubers and save your money. The transit system may look overwhelming, but it’s actually pretty easy to navigate. Learn how to use the London tube before your trip here .

-London is known for having rainy weather, so pack a travel-sized umbrella that can easily fit in a purse or large pocket. This way, you’ll never be caught in the rain unprepared. 

-If possible, visit the more popular tourist destinations earlier in the day. Some of these places can get pretty crowded as the day goes on, so if you want a more relaxed atmosphere or to take photos without people getting in your shot then going earlier is a wise choice.

The following experiences are perfect for those enjoying some solo female travel in London or who just want to spend time exploring on their own. After reading this list, you’ll understand why London is one of the best places to travel alone in Europe .

Remember, too, that one of the biggest advantages of traveling alone is having ultimate freedom over your schedule, so feel free to adapt the below suggestions to suit your itinerary.

London Attractions For Solo Travelers

These solo-friendly sites shouldn’t be missed when visiting London.

The London Eye

The London Eye is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel and is one of the most recognizable modern landmarks in London.

Riding it is a must-have experience on a trip to England , especially as it offers beautiful bird’s-eye views over the city and River Thames.

Tours and tickets can be purchased here .

Sky Garden is a great place to enjoy beautiful views overlooking Central London. As the name says, this location is actually a garden in the sky. Take a walk among the greenery and look out at a vista from above the city. 

Tower of London

If you’re a history buff, then you’ll want to check out the Tower of London, a castle and World Heritage Site.

Here you can walk the same steps as important historic figures such as Anne Boleyn, the Queen of England from 1533 to 1536.

Plus, you can get up close to the famous Royal Crown Jewels — which features a collection of 23,578 gemstones — as well as the ravens that protect the castle.

For a unique excursion, this Tower of London tour also includes a cruise of the River Thames and the chance to watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most architecturally stunning buildings in London. You can buy tickets here to take a tour of this beautiful church during the week from Monday through Saturday. 

At the highest point of the dome is the Golden Gallery, where you can take in sweeping views of London — including the River Thames, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre — from 280 feet.

Emirates Air Line Ride

Take the Emirates Air Line cable car for a great view over the east side of London. Catch a view of The Shard, Canary Wharf, and the 02 Stadium from above.

You can choose to go during the day for a sweeping view across the city, or take a nighttime journey to see London all lit up.

Kings Cross Station

This is definitely a must-see, especially for the Harry Potter fans visiting London. Go to the wall labeled 9 ¾ for your chance to get a photo of yourself trying to run to the Hogwarts Express train.

When you’re finished, you can grab your photo and some other fun souvenirs just around the corner.

Big Ben & Parliament

The famous clock tower called Big Ben as well as the Parliament Building are two very important London icons. This means you should definitely add them to your solo itinerary.

While here, don’t just take in the beauty of the landmarks, but also explore the surrounding streets and neighborhoods full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Just note this area is touristy, so try to come earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey — a royal church and World Heritage Site — is around the corner from Big Ben and Parliament.

You can sit in the area and take in a view of this beautiful church, or you can take a tour. Just note they don’t allow photos inside. 

Are you a Beatles fan? Then head to Abbey Road, where the very famous photo was taken of the band crossing the street. 

If you want a picture of yourself here but you’re traveling solo, see if you can find someone nearby to take a photo of you as you cross. Very likely, someone else will want the same photo so you can trade places.

Just be sure to be on the lookout for cars and try not to get in anyone’s way!

Palace Theatre

When thinking of fun things to do alone in London , seeing a show should be pretty far up on that list.

London has a great selection of performances that you can watch. Of course, if you’re a Harry Potter fan you must head to the Palace Theatre to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Very likely, this will be a highlight of your trip.

If you’re traveling solo, you may prefer trying to catch an afternoon viewing of a show, which can actually save you a bit of money, too.

National Theatre

Located in the South Bank district of London, the National Theatre is another great place to see a world class performance.

They serve food and drinks in the theater, too, though if you want a nice sit-down meal there are many restaurants within walking distance.

Pro tip: If you want to save money, you can snag £10 Friday Rush tickets from 1pm. Details here .

Buckingham Palace

Whether you have 5 days in England or are just spending a day in London, this attraction should be at the top of your list!

You can also book a tour here to gain a deeper understanding of England’s royal heritage.

Buckingham Palace is the most recognizable home and place of business of the British Royal Family. Try to get here earlier in the day to beat the crowds. 

Barbican Conservatory

If you like the greenery of Sky Garden, then you’re bound to love Barbican Conservatory, one of the largest greenhouses in London.

Exploring London on a budget ? You’ll be happy to know it’s free to enter, though note you do still need to get tickets ahead of time as space is limited.

Piccadilly Circus 

Piccadilly Circus is basically London’s version of Times Square in New York City . You can do a bit of shopping while you’re here, or just walk around and take in the buzzing atmosphere. 

Trafalgar Square

Have coffee or lunch in Trafalgar Square and do some people watching — which is especially enjoyable on a sunny day in London. You’ll also find restaurants, cafes, museums, markets, and other attractions if you’re looking for something to do.

Strange fact:

While here, take a close look at the lion statues surrounding Nelson’s Column. They were designed by painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who used an actual dead lion as his model. The paws were done last, and it’s often said that they look odd compared to the rest of the body, as the animal had begun to decompose. Yikes!

Stroll London’s Quaint Mews

In case you’ve never heard this term, “mews” are tucked away cobblestone streets in London that often showcase buildings laced with ivy or wisteria. Interestingly, these buildings used to be stables but have been converted into townhomes.

Wandering these whimsical mews is a great way to take in some London charm while enjoying a scenic walk on your own. A few mews to add to your solo travel itinerary include:

Holland Park Mews

Located in Holland Park, you can take a walk in the neighborhood and enjoy the cobblestone street and quaint buildings. Enter from the west entrance to pass under a historic arch dating back to 1862 that is on the National Heritage List for England.

Warren Mews

Warren Mews is a very popular spot with people looking to take photos of a quaint and cozy spot in London. You can find Warren Mews located in the Camden area of London.

Kynance Mews

Located in South Kensington, Kynance Mews is another sweet neighborhood to check out if you enjoy exploring these converted neighborhoods. 

Explore London Markets

Exploring local markets is a big part of local life in London. They’re also great for solo travelers and groups alike. So if you’re wondering where to go alone in London , don’t miss:

Portobello Road Market

Wander the popular Portobello Road Market and peruse stall upon stall of fresh food, clothing, antiques, knickknacks, and more.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a great place to get something to eat as a solo traveler. They have a wide array of food choices, and if you’re someone who is nervous about sitting alone at a restaurant, you don’t have to worry about that here!  

Columbia Road Flower Market

If you love plants, then you really need to take a trip over to the Columbia Road Flower Market. Open on Sundays, the market stalls overflow with roses, calla lilies, amaryllis, chrysanthemums, and other colorful flowers and plants.

Learn At The Many London Museums

Perusing interesting exhibits is a great way to spend a day in London on your own. The following London museums are some of the best.

Victoria & Albert Museum

For solo travelers craving a dose of creativity, this museum showcases over 1 million vintage design and art pieces.

The British Museum

Housed in a beautiful Greek Revival building, the British Museum features 2 million years of human history and culture from around the world through interesting exhibits, events, tours, and talks.

Choose to take a guided tour through the museum for a fee or explore at your own pace for free to save money on solo travel .

The Natural History Museum

Discovering the Natural History Museum is one of the best things to do in London alone for free!

Learn about our planet and its fascinating creatures at the Natural History Museum. And it’s not just current living things either. In fact, their dinosaur exhibit is a highlight of a visit!

Get Inspired At London Art Galleries

Get in touch with your creative side with a solo trip to a local London gallery, like:

The National Gallery 

Looking for free things to do in London? The National Gallery is a free art museum in Trafalgar Square that showcases over 2,300 works.

Much of the artwork is world-renowned, too, like The Virgin of the Rocks by Leonardo Da Vinci and Mars and Venus by Botticelli.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is another must-see gallery if you love art and are looking for fun things to do in London by yourself . As the name suggests, you’ll find more modern art here — versus the historical paintings that you would find at many other art galleries. 

It’s free to visit the Tate Modern, however, be sure to grab a ticket and reserve a time beforehand.

Catch A Movie At A London Cinema

While it can sometimes feel awkward to go to a bar or club on your own, cinemas offer the perfect option for some solo nightlife in London. So, when you’re looking for things to do alone in London at night , check out:

Prince Charles Cinema

If you’re wanting to catch a film while you’re in Central London, the Prince Charles Cinema is a popular option. It shows a mix of current Hollywood films as well as older films, so you’ll easily be able to find something entertaining.

Picturehouse Central

Relax with a solo movie viewing experience at Picturehouse Central, which is known for its comfortable seating as well as its dining options. They’ve even got an outdoor terrace and bar with beautiful views over London.

This is a fun twist on the usual movie theatre outing! 

The Electric Cinema

This small 600-seat theater takes you back in time. With their Portobello location opening in 1911, this cinema is one of the oldest in Britain! That being said, you can still see the latest flicks.

Everyman Cinema

Everyman Cinema is also worth checking out if you want to see a movie alone in London. This cinema is comfortable and enjoyable, however, their screens are a bit on the smaller side in comparison to other theaters around the city.

Enjoy Nature At London Parks

Wandering through nature is the perfect way to get back in touch with yourself. Luckily, London is home to truly unforgettable parks that double as some of the top places to go alone in London , like:

St. James Park

Listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, St. James Park is a large 57-acre park with much to explore — from a small lake with two islands to a resident colony of pelicans.

Visiting this lovely park is one of the best things to do in London on your own, especially for those who love immersing themselves in nature! You can spend some time exploring its different areas.

As the park is located near Buckingham Palace, you’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of the royal residence from certain areas of the park, like the Blue Bridge.

Hyde Park is one of the most popular parks in London, and it’s the largest at 350 acres. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a boat ride, a walk through the trees, or a wander through the adjacent Kensington Palace and Gardens.

Its size and beauty make it one of London’s top places to go alone to clear your head or just enjoy some greenery.

Visiting Hyde Park is one of the top Christmas activities in London , as you can experience the annual Hyde Park Winter Wonderful event with live music, figure skating, holiday markets, and more.

Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is a smaller park in London, but it is still a great one to check out. It offers a lovely view of the city from atop its grassy hill summit.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is a top park option located in South East London. Formerly a hunting park, you can now come here for a nice walk paired with a beautiful view of the city skyline. 

Walthamstow Wetlands

As London’s largest nature reserve and the largest urban wetlands in Europe, Walthamstow Wetlands has much to explore. Wander 13 miles of paths and bring your binoculars to do some birdwatching.

Explore London On A Guided Tour

One of the best ways to meet other people while traveling London solo is booking a walking tour. These excursions not only introduce you to London history and culture, but they can also be quite social. Some not-to-miss tours include:

Explore street art in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is known for its street art. You can join a walking tour through the area or take yourself around. You’ll learn a bit more if you join a guided tour though, and you’ll likely even make some friends along the way!

Click here to peruse tickets and tours .

Cruise the River Thames

Get an up-close look at London’s famous skyline with a cruise along the River Thames. There are different types of cruises that you can enjoy and can do at different times of the day. See the skyline in detail during the day or enjoy the twinkling city lights on an evening cruise. 

Take a food tour of Borough Market

Exploring the markets is one of the best things to do in London as a solo traveller who loves food, but it can be better with a local guide!

Borough Market is known to have some of the best food around, so why not join a walking tour with other visiting foodies? Try a bit of everything as you make your way through — and order some to-go to enjoy later.

See all the sights on a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

A Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour visits almost all of London’s biggest attractions, and you have the ability to get on and off as you please throughout the day.

Sure, it’s one of the most touristy things you can do; but honestly, if you’re visiting London and are short on time, it can be a great way to get a lot in. Plus, you can save on transportation as you simply pay for the ticket once.

Recommendation:

Get on at one stop and ride the whole way through to see many different aspects of the city. As you go, note the areas that appeal to you most and walk back to those spots later on.

Click here to purchase your ticket .

Enjoy thrift shopping & Indian food on Brick Lane

Another great place to explore on foot is the hip Brick Lane, a street in the East End of London.

Here you’ll find thrift shops where you can find great budget buys as well as delicious food options — especially if you like Indian food and craft cocktail bars.

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

See the colors of Notting Hill

Notting Hill is known across the world for its colorful homes. You may have even seen a bit of it in the movie Notting Hill starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. 

Go for a walk to really take in the beautiful and bright colors of the neighborhood — which can cheer you up on a dreary day.

Do Some (Window) Shopping 

Shopping is best done at your own pace. Enjoy this solo-friendly activity in some of London’s top shopping areas.

Oxford Street

You’ll find many high-end stores on Oxford Street. Have fun window shopping or treat yourself and grab a few mementos to bring home to remember your time here. 

Bond Street

You can get to Bond Street from Oxford Street to continue your luxury shopping journey. On Bond Street, you’ll be greeted by some of the biggest luxury brands in the world like Cartier, Bulgari, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi, to name a few.

Covent Garden 

Covent Garden is a London district offering a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end brands to markets. You’ll also find some tasty food options here, from a diverse array of restaurants to pubs to cafes.

Harrods is probably one of the first places you think of when it comes to shopping in London. This luxury department store showcases over 5,000 brands across clothing, furniture, food, jewelry, beauty, and more.

Bonus: You can also try a proper British afternoon tea while you’re here. 

Selfridges is another worthwhile department store to check out while you’re in London.

It has even been voted the best department store in the world multiple times by the Intercontinental Group of Department Stores thanks to its creative collaborations, clever store concepts (like pop up installations and social spaces), and high-quality goods sold.

Carnaby Street

This pedestrian shopping street is full of boutiques and restaurants — though that’s not all. It’s also worth visiting to see the beautiful signage and decorations that change with the seasons. It’s particularly noteworthy during the holidays when they do a light display!

Daunt Books

Daunt Books is a really popular bookstore in London that is worth checking out. While today it’s a local chain, the first shop opened in the Marylebone district in 1912 — and claims to be the world’s first custom-built bookshop.

Not only is the shop beautiful with oak galleries and skylights, but they offer a lot of interesting travel books, which is its specialty.

Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth it to simply wander the old-school shop and get inspiration for a future purchase.

Enjoy Offbeat Things To Do In London By Yourself

Wondering what to do alone in London while getting off the main tourist trail? A few recommendations include:

Walk The Line

The Line is a free-to-enjoy modern and contemporary art walk in East London. It stretches from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to The O2, following the waterways and the line of the Greenwich Meridian while introducing you to inspiring sculptures and beautiful views along the way.

Kayak the Thames River

Craving an urban adventure? London’s famous Thames River isn’t just for admiring from the street, but also from a kayak! In fact, the London Kayak Company offers both day and night trips that are suitable for all levels.

Get funky at God’s Own Junkyard

Located in London’s creative Walthamstow neighborhood, God’s Own Junkyard is an eclectic art shop showcasing colorful neon signs, unique props, and other creative pieces hanging from every inch of the walls and ceiling.

If you love interesting art or want a fun shot for your Instagram grid, don’t miss this stop.

Explore medical heritage at a quirky museum

One of the best things to do in London alone is to explore a local museum.

Along with popular institutions like the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum, London is home to a number of quirky museums — many of which look at niche topics related to medical history. A few of these include:

The Anaesthesia Museum. This medical museum showcases more than 2,000 objects dating back to 1774 through the present that help to tell the story of anaesthesia.

Freud Museum. Explore the final home of Sigmund Freud, founder of psychoanalysis. His study room has been preserved to look just as it did when he was alive, and you can also peruse contemporary art, 2500 antiquities from Sigmund Freud’s personal collection, and exhibitions on Freud and psychoanalysis.

Old Operating Theatre Museum. Here you’ll see Britain’s oldest surviving purpose-built operating theatre, constructed in 1822 for low-income women. You’ll see some fascinating exhibits and will learn the (somewhat gruesome) story of early medicine and operations.

Go back in time at the Billingsgate Roman House & Baths

You’d never know that underneath a nondescript office building on Lower Thames Street sits 2,000 years of history.

In fact, in the basement of the building, you’ll find the ruins of a Roman home and bathhouse — discovered in 1848 when the floor was dug up during construction of a new coal exchange, as at the time coal was the most important commodity of the British Empire.

You can see the ruins for yourself on a tour, which begins with learning about Roman history in London and even seeing a map of Roman London (or Londinium, as the Romans called it).

Eating Alone In London

Of course, you are free to dine wherever you’d like, though some eateries are more solo-friendly than others. A few of these include the following.

Eat at the bar

If you feel awkward requesting a table for one, consider opting for a restaurant with a bar or counter. A few eateries in London with fantastic bar service include The Drapers Arms (for comfort food), St John’s Tavern (seasonal dishes), and Lyle’s (Michelin-starred).

Dine at cafes

It’s completely commonplace to see people sitting alone at a cafe. Luckily, these cozy establishments aren’t just for coffee, especially if you pop into Nora Cafe , Antipode , or Urban Meadow Cafe and Bar — all of which are known for their tasty menus.

Pair your meal with entertainment

You’re less likely to feel awkward if you’ve got something to focus on. Plus, pairing entertainment with your meal allows you to enjoy a fun local experience while you eat.

A few recommendations for this include Gingerline (for immersive dining adventures), Ronnie Scott’s (for live jazz), and London Cabaret Club (for a mix of song, dance, and theater).

These are also great picks if you’re looking for things to do in London alone at night.

Head Out On A Solo Day Trip From London

As you read above, there are many solo things to do in London. That being said, there is also much to explore outside the city. The following London day trips are safe, fun, and unforgettable for solo travelers.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour

The Warner Brothers Studio Tour is a must for Harry Potter fans, especially as you get to see how they’ve made the set into a Harry Potter museum. 

It can get quite busy here, so it’s a good idea to come in the first group of the day. This way, you can stroll along at a leisurely pace without too many people getting in your way. 

You can catch a shuttle bus from Watford Junction — which run about every 30 minutes — and you can be back in London by the afternoon.

Oxford is known for its beautiful architecture and historic university — the oldest in the English-speaking world and the second-oldest in continuous operation as it’s believed to date back to 1096.

Along with visiting the university, you can explore Oxford Castle, see the beautiful pastel-colored houses of Holywell Street, peruse the local covered markets, and gaze out over the city’s iconic “dreaming spires” from St Mary’s Church Tower.

Some of the buildings here were even used in the Harry Potter films, so this is another great destination for Harry Potter fans. 

To reach Oxford, you can take a train from London Paddington Station, which takes about an hour, or book a tour .

Windsor is home to one of the main royal residences used by the British Royal Family. You can take a day trip here to see Windsor Castle — which is a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II. 

To reach Windsor from London, you can grab a coach from Victoria Coach Station, a train from London Paddington Station, or a direct train that takes a little bit longer from London Waterloo Station.

Of course, you can also book a tour .

Unsurprisingly, Bath is known for its Roman bathhouses, hence its name. This is another top destination to check out for the history buffs, as you’ll be able to visit ancient Roman baths — or take a dip yourself at the modern Thermae Bath Spa .

Love views? Climb to the top of Bath Abbey Tower for a vista over the city.

To reach Bath, you can grab a 90-minute train from Paddington Station or book a tour .

Stonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site that is believed to date back to 3100 BC. It’s known as being very sophisticated for its time, though its purpose remains a mystery to researchers.

Because of the rich history, it’s best to visit on a tour, like these .

Bonus: Top Tours For A Solo Trip To London

One great way to meet people when traveling solo is booking a group tour. A few top-rated excursions include:

• Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London
• Secret Food Tour: London Bridge & Borough Market w/ Private Tour Option
• Classic London Landmarks Bicycle Tour
• Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
• Secret Walking Tour of Central London

Click here for a full list of tours in London .

Top London Hotels

Looking for London accommodation?

Click here for a list of top-rated hotels!

There are also some pretty epic hotels in the UK with private hot tubs .

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals ! 

You can also use the map below to search for local stays:

England Train Travel

Getting around England by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! I use this tool for all of my public transportation needs when traveling Europe .

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount. They even offer flight and car deals!

London Travel Insurance

When visiting London — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Solo things to do London FAQ

Q) how can i spend a day alone in london.

In terms of how to spend a day alone in London, make sure to visit London’s main attractions, museums, art galleries, parks, and markets. Also, you might want to check out tours to learn more about the culture and meet other travelers.

Q) Is London fun for solo travel?

Yes, London is one of the best destinations for solo travelers as there are plenty of fun things to do alone.

What would you add to this list of fun things to do in London alone?

Enjoyed this list on what to do in London alone ? Pin it for later!

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Amazing blog, really interesting, I loved reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this.

Beautiful blog, so amazingly written, please keep on writing blogs like this in future.

Wow! As a solo traveler, this list just made me even more excited to explore London solo! Can’t wait to dive into these fun activities and create unforgettable memories all by myself. Thanks for the awesome recommendations!

This article is fabulous, and the information and images are fantastic.

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41+ Things to Do Alone in London for the Ultimate Solo Trip (2024)

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Whether you’re a backpacker planning your ultimate solo trip to London or just a visitor going it alone, these things to do alone in London will make sure that you have an amazing time and see just as much of the sights as you would with a travel buddy.

Before we get too far into it, you should know, though that a solo trip to London is perfectly safe (check out my guide on London safety here ) and also that you really could do everything you want without worrying what people think of you.

⭐️Editor’s choice!⭐️

The best thing to do alone in London is this London Bridge secret food tour – over 3 hours of guided food tasting and no one cares if you’re riding solo!

>> Click here to book in advance (recommended)

Londoners are busy, and this is a bustling, giant, city.

You won’t be the first person to sit by yourself at afternoon tea, and you won’t be the last.

But what are the best things to do on your own in London? Let me explain!

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

GET A FREE LONDON INTRO GUIDE and ACCESS TO MY FB GROUP

Start your planning with this “Intro to London” guide and access to my London planning Facebook group!

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Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Check out the YouTube channel for more London tips

1. Take in the View from the SkyGarden

The SkyGarden is one of the best views in London, and it’s a great way to see the gorgeous London skyline for solo travelers.

Not only is it completely free, but so many people will be milling about and caring more about the view than who is alone or with a partner, so you can banish those “solo traveler” nerves.

The interior of the SkyGarden itself is relaxing with plenty of foliage and an opportunity to buy drinks and snacks.

You do need to book in advance if you want a timed ticket, but if you’re open to being flexible (the benefits of going to London alone!), there are also “walk-up” tickets before and after the timed tickets on Mondays to Fridays.

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. Visit the British Museum

You can’t go to London without visiting the British Museum .

This is one of the world’s most beautiful and artifact-filled museum, featuring everything from Cleopatra to the Rosetta Stone.

Most people think that the British Museum is a collection of artifacts from the history of the UK, but actually it’s more of a collection of things from the British Empire over the years and around the world, which spanned much further than the shores of the British Isles.

From ancient coins to tools to mummies, touring the British Museum alone gives you so much freedom to decide what to see and when, and the long tables on the main floor are perfect for grabbing something to eat or drink on your own while still being included in the museum vibe.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

3. Enjoy a Drink at a Pub Sitting at the Bar

Going to the pub alone is something that puts off many solo travelers, but don’t worry!

I’ll have a suggestion for eating a pub alone later, but if you just want a drink, just sit or stand at the bar and make conversation with the staff when they’re free.

Even if it’s an action-packed pub and they’re too busy to really talk, you may find other solo visitors doing the same and you won’t look out of place enjoying your drink and taking in the atmosphere.

4. Have Afternoon Tea in a Casual Tea Spot

The other “London must-do” that really freaks out some solo travelers who might feel self-conscious is the idea of sitting across from no one at a fancy afternoon tea.

Again, please, just go for it if it’s something you want to do and banish the insecurity, but if you really want something a little more low key, try afternoon tea in a more casual environment like at a Bea’s of Bloomsbury location.

This is not a dedicated afternoon tea experience, but instead a bakery where you can order an afternoon tea.

This makes it less conspicuous that you’re having an afternoon tea alone because there will probably be other people who are alone enjoying a coffee or cake alongside you.

5. Go Shopping on Oxford Street

When you’re solo traveling, there’s no one to tell you that you can’t spend as much money as you want on Oxford street, so take advantage of it.

Walking down one of the most iconic streets in the world, being able to stop into Selfridge’s or John Lewis or Primark and really explore and find all of the best things to buy in London is a relaxing way for a shopaholic to spend some time in London without anyone caring that you’re alone.

6. Take a Harry Potter Tour

On tours, it really doesn’t matter if you’re alone as you’ll likely find other people who are also solo travelers or everyone just becomes one big group anyway so it’s a way to see the city with other people even if you’re strangers at first.

One of the best tours of London is, undoubtedly, the Harry Potter walking tour ( click here to check prices and availability ).

You can do a self-guided walking tour of Harry Potter sites, but having a guide who knows the exact spots and who also has extra information for you and brings along visual aids to see how the area was used in the movies is a must-do.

7. Go for a Spin on the London Eye

The London Eye is another great view of London when it’s a clear day, and a London attraction where people are so obsessed with the view that no one is keeping tabs on you being by yourself or why.

You can feel totally confident riding the London Eye on your own, and you’ll be put into a pod with multiple other visitors and groups of people who don’t know each other, so you won’t be the odd one out.

Make sure to take full advantage of the 360 view, and gather up the courage to ask someone to take your photo while up at the top so you can show friends and family back home!

8. Wander around Piccadilly Circus

Known as the London version of Times Square, Piccadilly Circus is loud, frenzied, bright, and a perfect place to get lost in the London shuffle.

There’s nothing like wandering around this area and soaking in the atmosphere, sitting on the steps in the middle and people-watching, or just walking through the area.

Like all of Central London, it’s totally safe for solo visitors to London and you will have a blast taking it in in your own time.

9. See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

Never miss a chance to visit the Tower of London , one of the most historic and iconic London attractions that you can genuinely spend hours and hours exploring.

In fact, this is another one of those London attractions where the solo element comes in handy, because there’s just so much to see and do there that many people traveling in pairs or groups don’t get to see it all because of having to cater to each other’s interests.

When you go by yourself, you’re in full control of where you spend your time, including seeing the crown jewels, exploring the medieval side to the Tower, walking the walls, taking a free tour by a Beef Eater, and so much more.

10. Have a Solo Picnic in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is the largest park in London , and one of the easiest to blend into as a solo visitor because there will be plenty of people on their own in the park.

Bring a packed lunch, whether you’ve made it at your AirBnb or you bought it from somewhere like Pret or EAT, or get what’s called a “meal deal” from a nearby grocery store which is usually about £3 for a sandwich, drink, and bag of chips (called crisps in the UK).

Pick yourself a bench or a spot under a tree and have yourself a picnic in the park, no travel partners needed!

11. Window Shop at Harrods

Harrods , a stunningly beautiful store in Knightsbridge is world famous for being the department store for the rich.

There are crazy tales of all of the things people have purchased here over the years, though today it is really popular among visitors who are just hoping some of the fancy vibes will rub off on them.

It’s a great place to duck into when you want to get lost for a few hours as well as a fun thing to do in London in the rain .

12. Take in Evensong at St. Paul’s Cathedral

There are multiple ways to see St. Paul’s Cathedral , but the best one for a solo traveler is to visit during Evensong.

Not only is this service free, but it’s such a unique experience to get to hear the choir in such an acoustically rich place full of history and things to look at.

You can’t go around and see most of the visitor exhibits if you’re headed to Evensong, as the purpose is to actually sit in St. Paul’s and listen to the service, but I think it’s a truly unique way to experience London to take advantage of.

13. Get Lunch at Borough Market

Part of the fear of many solo visitors to London includes where to eat.

Many people aren’t comfortable sitting at a restaurant by themselves (which you totally should be, it’s fine!), but if that sounds like you, why not spend a lot of time enjoying London’s best food market?

Honestly, you could eat at Borough Market every day and still have a totally different meal each time.

This is seriously the best food market in all of London, and you’ll simply blend into the crowd and get to try things at your own pace.

There is limited seating available in the main hall, with many people perching on curbs or anywhere they can find to eat their meal in true food hall style.

14. Take a Boat Ride to Tate Britain

Take a boat ride on the Thames towards Tate Britain (pick it up at Westminster Pier) and you’ll be cruising in style – and no one cares that you’re alone because they’re all looking at the sights outside of the boats.

If you want to save money and be a bit more of a local, you can use the Thames Clippers service which does not include guided audio and is just a regularly running boat service on the Thames.

However, if you want the whole shebang when it comes to tourist information and a guided experience, you can totally take a boat tour geared towards tourists as well.

Some are hop-on, hop-off, while others are full experiences that pick you up and drop you off in the same place.

15. Join a Jack the Ripper Walk

Interested in the creepier side of London?

Another walking tour that might interest you is a Jack the Ripper walking tour in London’s East End, following in the food steps of this absolutely terrible (but fascinating to many) mysterious criminal.

Because you’ll be with other people on this tour, it’s a fun way to meet other visitors while feeling secure as you walk around the East End.

That’s not to say that today’s East End is as shady was it was back in the days of Jack the Ripper (today it’s pretty much a hipster paradise), but it’s definitely a place in the evening that I feel more confident being with a group or having a buddy on some of the lesser trafficked side streets.

16. Get Beigels on Brick Lane

The Brick Lane beigels (more on bagel vs beigel in a second) are a London iconic in and of themselves, and you can go stroll the eclectic Brick Lane shops with a beigel in hand!

The difference between beigels and bagels is…mostly spelling, though technically beigels are actually the ancestor to the bagel and always involved being boiled before being baked (not all bagels are boiled before baking!)

Either way, it’s basically what you’re expecting: a fantastic bagel (often filled with salmon and cream cheese on Brick Lane, but you can get any kind of beigel) that will give you a carb rush and a pep in your step as you explore one of the most diverse and fascinating parts of London.

17. Get a Great Spot for the Changing of the Guard

If you’re by yourself instead of in a large group, you have a much better chance of getting a great spot for the Changing of the Guard because you can go early and squeeze into more places!

Changing of the Guard usually happens around 10am each morning, but this is dependent on the time of the year so make sure to check the schedule before showing up.

The absolute best place to watch if you’re a solo visitor is to get right up next to the Buckingham Palace railings, though this does require you to get there about an hour early.

If you’re happier to see what you can see from other vantage points, aim to get there about 15-20 minutes early and squeeze where you can – the procession takes place in front of the palace and then on the road out front, so you’re sure to catch some great glimpses of this royal tradition in action.

18. See the Churchill War Museum

Everyone should see the Churchill War Museum while in London, but it’s also great for solo visitors because of how small and narrow the corridors are down there!

It’s much easier to navigate on your own.

This is one of the most fascinating museums in the history of…ever. Trust me.

Not only is there an actual Churchill museum space, but you’ll get to see the wartime rooms where Churchill and other top ranking British officials lived, worked, hid, and slept during World War II.

Even if you’re not into history on a normal day, you’ll be instantly fascinated by the original furniture and way the rooms are set up showing you what it must have been like to lead the world’s most famous war while in a bunker that no one else knew about.

19. People Watch in Trafalgar Square

When I’m on my own in London, often I like to spend time people-watching, and there’s no better place for that than Trafalgar Square.

Trafalgar Square is the hub of London, for many people, with its central location, frequent events or festivals taking place in it, and the iconic lions surrounding Nelson’s Column.

There are some benches, as well as the grand steps leading up to the National Gallery that you can sit on while pondering your future British husband options or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

20. Visit the Science Museum

London is chock full of museums, but another one I’d like to give special mention to is the Science Museum .

Located just a short walk from South Kensington tube station, this is a must-see museum for anyone interested in the sciences, whether natural, medical, or otherwise.

It’s truly an interactive experience, and a high tech museum featuring some really enchanting displays to help you think about who you are and your place in the world, in addition to standing in awe at some of science’s most prized artifacts like rocks from the moon, lunar modules, and some of the first machinery that helped modern society function.

21. Explore Petticoat Lane Market

People often think of markets like Camden Market when they’re visiting London, as they get talked about more in guidebooks, but I would highly encourage any visitor to go get a sense of London from Petticoat Lane Market .

Open on Sundays, this market is in the East End area and is one of the oldest markets in London.

People know it mostly for the fashion and clothes, but they actually do sell lots of different things in the stalls.

While many think it’s past its prime in terms of the bustling market it used to be, I think it’s important for visitors to get a sense for “real” London, and the characters and sounds to be explored outside of the major tourist centers.

22. Sit on a Bench on the Thames Opposite the London Eye

Want a great view of the Thames while just people-watching and enjoying yourself?

If you take the tube to Westminster tube station, exit, and then walk along the river in the opposite direction to Big Ben, without crossing the bridge, you’ll find some peaceful benches that are great places to find some shade and some beautiful London views.

From there, you’ll have a great view of the London Eye rotating across the river from you, and these are my secret spot for taking a breather when in London while also being right in the action.

23. Take a Tour of Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous London landmarks, and one that is well worth visiting for the solo traveler.

Not only is it right in the heart of Westminster and next to Big Ben and the Thames, but this is such an important part of London’s history and where many important British people are buried.

It’s also hosted a fair few royal weddings, we’re looking at you Will & Kate!

Yes, it will be busy with tourists, but that means that you can just do your thing and won’t stand out in the crowd.

There is quite a lot to see here, and I recommend in my guide on how long to spend at London attractions spending about 2-3 hours here, though probably closer to 2 if you’re on your own and don’t have to wait for anyone to catch up.

24. Stroll the (very safe) Streets of Kensington

While I do believe central London is all safe for a solo visitor (providing you have actual street smarts and aren’t wandering around for the heck of it in a dark alley at 3am), one of the safest boroughs in London is Kensington , where you’ll find Kensington Palace and many of the popular museums.

I highly recommend Kensington as one of those places for solo visitors to plan on ditching the map and just walking around, checking out the beautiful streets while feeling confident that you can’t stray in the wrong direction.

25. Climb the Monument

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren (who also designed the stunningly beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral) in commemoration and memory of the Great Fire of London, the Monument is one of the best views in London!

At over 300 steps and a narrow walk up to the top, it’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re not dragging any kids around or needing to cater to other people, you can go up at your own pace.

You can buy tickets on the day, and it’s only just over £5.00 for adults so not one of the more expensive things to do in London.

26. Get Last Minute Tickets for a West End Show

Want to see a theatre performance?

The West End is calling your name, even moreso as a solo visitor because you only need to snag one ticket and can use my best tips on finding cheap theatre tickets in London to help you out.

Of course you can just buy one ahead of time from the online box office for that show and show up (I’ve seen quite a few West End shows on my own), but if you really want to see if you can snag some great seats for less, check out the TICKTS booth in Leicester Square on the day of the performance to see what they have to sell.

Another great resource is London Theatre Direct if you want cheap tickets but don’t want to stand in line.

27. Visit the Imperial War Museum

History buffs will love the Imperial War Museum , which has collected artifacts from many of the most important conflicts that the British Empire has been involved in, including modern war.

War is not glorified here, but instead the focus is on education and on the impact that war has had both on the people in the trenches (literally) and the warfront at home.

It’s a fascinating look at all the UK has been involved in.

28. Get Lost in Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens , the Royal Botanic gardens of London and in fact one of the best botanical gardens anywhere, is a fantastic place for a solo visitor who wants to get a bit lost in the grounds and experience some (curated) nature in London.

From the greenhouses to the stunning gardens to the amazing gift shop, you could truly spend a whole day here on a good weather day just appreciating all of the horticulture and taking the train around the grounds.

Take the chance to see some plants that might not be native to your home country and breathe some fresh air before dipping back down into the London Underground.

29. Be a “Groundling” at Shakespeare’s Globe

If you’re not quite up for seeing a West End show by yourself, another option is to buy a standing or “groundling” ticket for Shakespeare’s Globe .

These tickets are only about £5 and you can literally stand so close to the stage that you rest your arms on it.

When standing in such a crowd, no one knows who is with who or cares who’s by themselves, plus you’ll get to see Shakespeare in the way it was intended!

While the production might be cancelled for dangerous weather, it’s not going to be paused because of some rain, so wear your rain jacket (don’t forget my guide on what to pack for London ) and enjoy!

30. Go to the Visitor’s Gallery at the Old Bailey

The Old Bailey, the most famous criminal court in London and arguably all of England, allows visitors to sit in the gallery for free to watch live sessions.

This is a fascinating experience for anyone, but particularly for visitors from overseas to see how the courtroom operates in one of the most historic locations.

The only catch is you can’t bring anything with you, including your phone, so this is a good thing to do when you can leave it at the hotel for a bit and take a London printed map with you to explore for the day.

31. Eat a Pub Lunch at Outdoor Seating, Facing the Street

Some people are nervous about eating at a pub by themselves, no matter how many times I try to convince them it’s okay, so for those people I would suggest finding a pub with outdoor seating!

There are plenty of pubs with tables that look out to the street or look out onto the river or similar, and this means you can choose an outside spot while taking in the view and won’t feel awkward sitting inside by yourself.

This is obviously much more doable during nice weather in London and not so much an option in London in the winter, but keep it in mind!

32. See the View from Primrose Hill

Ready for a peaceful afternoon with gorgeous views, plenty of space to spread out, and not a care in the world?

Head to Primrose Hill, the highest point in Regent’s Park, where you can get a great sunset view of London’s skyline as well as just do some people-watching, listen to music, or bring yourself a picnic.

This part of London is filled with people on their own going for runs, enjoying the scenery, and just experiencing life, so don’t be afraid to throw yourself in the mix and enjoy!

33. Try a Restaurant with Long Shared Tables like Wagamama

For those not wanting to eat at a restaurant by themselves, sitting across from no one at a table for two, try London restaurants with long shared tables like Wagamama.

Here, you just choose your spot at a shared table and plenty of people come to eat alone.

34. Explore Greenwich

If you haven’t heard of Greenwich, it’s a must-do!

I usually recommend Greenwich if you’re spending a week or more in London, as it does require a trip out of Central London, but here you can strand over the Prime Meridian, standing in two hemispheres at once, and explore some awesome museums like the National Maritime Museum .

This is a really safe area with a bustling hive of activity and you can get there via boat or via the tube.

35. Spend the Afternoon in Daunt Books

If you’re a reader like me, you’ll fall in love with one of London’s best bookstores, Daunt Books .

Located in Marylebone, this seems like a bookshop right out of a movie with gorgeous interior architecture and cozy corners.

It also is an independent book shop (with a few more locations dotted around, but not a huge chain), and it always feels good to support independent booksellers.

Plus what better place to be alone than a book store?

36. Get Take-Out Pizza at Icco

If you want some carry-out pizza that is insanely cheap and incredibly delicious, try Icco in Bloomsbury.

You can totally dine-in if you want, as the casual diner seating makes it more than acceptable to eat alone, but on a nice day, grab your pizza (seriously, a whole pizza to yourself) to go and go sit outside on a bench or take it to the local park or green spaces.

It’s highly loved by students in the local area, but anyone can visit and experience the savings!

37. People Watch at Camden Market

When you want hustle and bustle to get lost in when you’re seeing London solo, Camden Market is the place to go.

From food stalls to vintage wares to clothing, there is plenty to buy (if you’re in the market), but you can also just stroll along and sort of blend into the crowd.

No one is going to be paying any attention to you as they’ll be so fixated on the surrounding sights, and you can experience this iconic London market by yourself.

38. Go on a Boat Sightseeing Tour

Grab a window seat on a Thames sightseeing tour and enjoy the leisurely float down the river.

On a boat tour, everyone is going to be looking out the windows, not caring who you’re with, so if you get anxious about traveling alone in London, this is a fantastic idea for a tour.

There’s no awkwardness, no “where’s everybody from?” small talk like a walking tour, and you’ll definitely want to make time in your day to see London as intended – from the water.

39. Take a Day Trip to Windsor Castle

There are so many day trips you can take from London alone, but one of the easiest is Windsor Castle.

Simply follow this guide on how to get to Windsor Castle from London and enjoy a day of sightseeing one of the most beautiful royal castles, along with the bustling High Street of Windsor which has lots of outdoor seating and dining, a delicious fudge shop, and boutique stores to help you buy souvenirs.

40. Try Ben’s Cookies in Soho

Got a sweet tooth, but don’t want to sit by yourself eating dessert in a restaurant?

Some of the best dessert in London comes from Ben’s Cookies , which have stalls all around the city, including a popular one in Soho.

The cookies are absolutely giant, come in plenty of flavors including white chocolate, triple chocolate chunk, and even chocolate orange, and you can continue walking around London with one (or three) in hand.

41. Book a Musical or Play

When the lights go down, no one’s looking to see if you’re alone at the musical or play, so don’t let the lack of a +1 put you off from enjoying London’s West End.

Book yourself a cheap matinee ticket or treat yourself to an evening at the theatre.

There are so many options, from the Lion King to the Book of Mormon to Matilda, that no matter what you’re into, you’ll find something to love when the stage curtains go up.

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

Want more helpful London guides? Check these out!

• 45 Things to Do in London at Night
• 53 Things to Do in London for Couples
• 57 Quirky and Unusual Things to Do in London
• 11 Tourist Traps to Avoid in London
• 23 Best London Tours
• 41 Best Things to Do in London with Kids
• 21 Best Castles Near London
• 23 Things to Do in London Bridge
• 15 Best London Hotels
• 17 Best Street Food Markets in London
• 15 Best Areas to Stay in London
• 23 Best Afternoon Teas in London
• 25 Best London Museums
• 33 Free Things to Do in London
• 21 Best London Markets
• 21 Best London Apps
• 23 Best Pubs in London
• 35 Best Restaurants in London
• 21 Harry Potter Things to Do in London
• 35 Things to Do in London in the Rain
• 25 Best Art Museums in London
• 17 Famous London Filming Locations
• 25 Best Places to Shop in London
• 35 Best Day Trips from London
• 31 Best Parks in London
• 41 Most Instagrammable Places in London
• 27 Best Views in London
• 27 Best Birthday Ideas in London
• 29 Best London Cinemas
• 29 Best Things to Buy in London
• 16 Best London AirBnbs
• 71 Best Things to Do in London

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

2 thoughts on “41+ Things to Do Alone in London for the Ultimate Solo Trip (2024)”

This list is BRILLIANT!! I’ve been visiting London for decades, and even I was impressed by your recommendations. Well done, keep up the good work. G D

Can you believe that after literally months living in London, I haven’t been to a West End show? I’ve been to The Nutcracker Christmas show which I loved, but have never been to one of these plays that are on billboards everywhere in London… I spend my time between Rome and London, and as soon as I’m back, I’ll go to one of these Leicester Square ticket booths to get myself some down time. Thank you for these great ideas!

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Your Complete Guide to Solo Travel in Scotland

Looking for unique and memorable solo travel holiday? Thinking about solo travel in the UK? Then Scotland could be just what you’re looking for! Travelling alone offers the chance to discover and connect with yourself more deeply. In the myth inspiring land of Scotland, you’re guaranteed an ideal solo getaway for any budget or preference. From wellness breaks to vibrant city culture and outdoor adventures, Scotland provides so many amazing solo travel experiences you’ll love.

Dunbar Cliff Top Trail

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

What's it like to explore Scotland as a solo traveller?

If you didn’t know already, we Scots are a friendly bunch and in recent years Scotland has become a top pick destination for male and female solo travellers worldwide. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what some experienced solo travellers have to say about Scotland.

Glasshouses at the Royal Botanic Garden; Edinburgh

Elise Shapiro

Elise, an IT training specialist from Seattle in Washington, decided to travel abroad on a solo adventure after her husband and friends weren’t able to come along. This is what she had to say:

“I have taken a year off to travel and found that Scotland is a great country for solo travel. People are kind and friendly and public transportation has been easy to figure out. I was taking the city bus in Edinburgh on my second day in Scotland. I’ve scheduled time on group tours as well as alone, so I can meet people and make new friends, but I can also have downtime by myself.”  

“Scotland is an easy country for solo travelers. From the botanical gardens, castles and cathedrals to the museums and great restaurants, there’s tons to do, no matter what you are interested in.”  

Standing at the John o'Groats signpost

© Brieuc Botte

Brieuc Botte

Brieuc is a French Content Translator at VisitScotland who recently travelled by train to experience the magic of the far north of Scotland and then write all about his epic solo journey.

“I couldn’t take my eyes off the window as we passed the heather-clad hillsides facing the coastline of Sutherland, up to the fishing town of Helmsdale. I was amazed at the number of stops on the line; for such a sparsely populated area, it is remarkably well-connected.”

Brieuc also decided to embark on a guided tour to explore some of the most northern stretches of mainland Scotland.

“Because I’m lucky enough to call Scotland my home, it was my first experience of a guided tour in Scotland and, I must say, I couldn’t have hoped for a better guide! I tried to test his (the tour guide) knowledge on a few occasions and was impressed by the depth of knowledge and passion with which he delivered his stories."

Linlithgow Palace by Linlithgow Loch

Mary's Meanders

Heading out on a guided tour or speaking with a knowledgeable tour guide are great ways to explore a brand-new place. You can get the insider scoop on the destination and find new recommendations or hidden gems to add to your itinerary, all in the company of a friendly face. Emma Chalmers is a guide with tour company Mary’s Meanders , who specialize in Outlander experiences.

“Since we started offering Outlander Tours, we have frequently hosted solo travellers. They have increased slightly since the pandemic but what is interesting is that they now say things like “I got tired of waiting for my friends/family members to commit and decided to just go for it”, “just because my husband doesn’t want to travel doesn’t mean I can’t”.  

Emma also commented: “We have a hand holding approach, we offer zoom calls in advance of the guest booking, we are happy to answer any type of question about little things that might be worrying them. It is all about building their confidence if needed.”  

The Best Solo Travel Destinations

The landscape surrounding the famous Munro of Schiehallion

© Perth and Kinross council / Fred Murray

Seriously, there is just so much to do! From historic attractions where you can learn about our incredible past, world-class arts and culture to see and experience, unbelievably beautiful landscapes to discover, and exceptional food & drink to indulge in - the possibilities go on.

• Walking is a perfect way to soak in the magic of Scotland’s ancient (and urban) landscapes. For example… Climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views across the capital of Edinburgh. Escape to the atmospheric and rugged Highlands, enjoy gentle walks like the east coast Fife Coastal Path  which will lead you through charming villages, or enjoy ambling alongside one of our beautiful canals . Get more inspiration for  walking in Scotland .
• Experience the one and only Jacobite steam train  (aka The Hogwart’s Express), which runs along the very scenic green and mountainous west coast, giving you unforgettable views. Please note that that a minimum of two passengers per booking is required for the first-class carriages. Solo travellers can travel in standard class. 
• Visit the beautiful Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in the incredibly cool city of Glasgow for free, and appreciate this extensive and significant collection of art and artifacts.
• Explore some of our legendary castles , like Cawdor Castle of Shakespeare’s Macbeth , or Balmoral Castle where the Queen loves to escape every summer with her family.
• We have plenty of insta-worthy independent book shops, coffee shops and cafes, where you can enjoy the relaxed hipster culture while reading some Scottish literature .

Find out more about what you can see and do in Scotland .

Freshly caught seafood at Kirkwall harbour.

© VisitScotland / VisitOrkney / Colin Keldie

Unique Experiences 

With a thriving hostel scene full of young, international travellers to meet, and plenty of low-cost activities to enjoy, make sure Scotland is on your list of stops! You’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable time here, and plenty of stories to share.

• Read about Scotland’s cities , full of insta-worthy iconic sights and hidden gems.
• Discover some of our very trendy Scottish hostels .
• Experience culinary delights at some of our cool street food markets , such as Platform at the Argyle Street Arches , or try one of our awesome seafood shacks which you can find across the country.
• Scotland has a world-renowned music and festival scene to discover.
• Get the most ‘bang for your buck’ in Scotland with budget getaway ideas – we have plenty of things you can do for free! And learn about fantastic ‘off-season’ experiences you can have here too.
• Try glamping or wild camping in some very epic landscapes.

Solo Travel Safety Tips

Winter at Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms National Park

First things first, you want to feel safe in order to really relax and enjoy your solo trip. As a safe and inclusive nation , solo travel in Scotland is very safe, for women and LGBT+ solo travellers alike. Street harassment and theft are rare, as is the potential for picking up any diseases or infections. And we not only have very friendly and helpful locals, but there’s provision of excellent public services too. Just be sure to apply common sense, such as if you are sampling Scotland’s lively and diverse nightlife.

Some useful information:

• Emergency treatment at NHS hospitals and clinics is free for everyone, regardless of residency status. Read more about health services for visitors .
• Walkhighlands offer great safety advice for the outdoors if you're walking alone rather than in a guided group, as weather in Scotland can be very changeable (all part of Scotland’s unique and photogenic charm of course!).
• You can refer to VisitScotland’s practical information tips for visiting Scotland.

First-Time Solo Traveller Tips

A Scotrail 156 Sprinter crossing Loch Awe near Dalmally

© Scotrail / Tony Hardley

Getting around

You’ll find that our cities, wild landscapes and islands are all very easy to get to. It certainly helps that Scotland is a small and compact country (but not in spirit and character, of course!).

If you’re not a driver, or just want to sit back and relax rather than worry about navigation and parking, Scottish public transport has got you covered. There are excellent rail networks, bus services, ferries, domestic flights to the northerly islands, and subway or tram networks in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Find out about getting around Scotland , and read our top picks of easy public transport trips to take .

Please note that some public transport providers may have cancelled certain services or routes and may be operating on a reduced schedule. 

If you do like to drive, the completely free road network in Scotland is excellent, with a low incidence of accidents. There are many scenic drives in Scotland to enjoy. Watch our helpful video on driving in Scotland .

Scotland's seasons

Scotland has long summer days which are ideal for getting out and about to take in the many sights. But even during our winters, the Scottish outdoors remain wonderful to explore - and the shorter daylight hours also mean you can enjoy time just relaxing and feeling cosy indoors with no guilt at all!

• Scotland’s nature really comes alive in the spring.
• Get ideas for an amazing summer trip.
• Autumn adventures in Scotland are breath-taking as the leaves change colour.
• Learn why Scotland is so great to visit in winter , with guaranteed snow up in the highlands.

Also check out the best times to see wildlife in Scotland with our Wildlife Calendar .

Paddleboarding on Loch Tay at Kenmore with Unique Adventure Tours

© Perth and Kinross Council / Craig Stephen

Check Out Solo Travel Tours

One of the easiest ways to take in the sights with logistics sorted for you, and also meet fellow travellers, is to join a tour. And we have so many to offer! Whether it’s a city walking tour, or several days across country, there’s definitely one for you.

Please check with the tour providers directly the confirm if tours are scheduled or subject to cancellation. 

• Mary Meanders is well suited to female travellers.
• For 18 - 35-year-olds on a budget try Haggis Adventures , and  MacBackpackers for 18 - 40s.
• Join a free walking tour of Edinburgh , Glasgow or Aberdeen .

See all our tour listings , where you can filter based on whatever type of experience you’re looking for.

There are also local Meetup activity groups to join, depending on your interests and where you visit, many of which are free.

Solo Traveller Ideas & Inspiration

Bridge of Orchy train

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Scotland is the perfect place to reconnect with and discover yourself. Whether it’s indulging in a luxury spa break, or getting away from it all to just read books or be mindful in a space of tranquility, you can benefit from a truly revitalising retreat here.

• Pamper yourself with a luxury country escape , or find a spa hotel .
• Take a restorative EcoYoga retreat in the peaceful Scottish Highlands.
• Energise your body with a detox retreat at the award-winning The Body Toolkit in the Highlands.
• Completely unwind your body and mind at the Dhanakosa Buddhist Retreat Centre on the beautiful shore of Loch Voil, within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
• Try forest bathing in Scotland , or get some ‘ off-the-beaten-track’ destination ideas.
• Release your inner creativity with a writing retreat , or enjoy the beautiful Gartmore House in Stirling for an arts & crafting retreat.
• Stay in a peaceful rural cottage surrounded by nature, snuggle into cosy accommodation with a log fire , or try some comfortable eco-friendly accommodation.

Read more about wellness breaks in Scotland.

A man practicing yoga at Loch Faskally

Here’s some more inspiration for a weekend or short break in Scotland, and ideas for a quirky back-to-nature escape . We also have a very useful map for exploring what you can do and experience across Scotland.

It’s all here just waiting for you! We hope to see you soon.

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10 Great Destinations for UK Solo Travellers

Where are the best places to travel alone.

Our list of great destinations for UK solo travellers to enjoy highlights some of the friendliest cities in Europe and beyond. One of the best parts of travelling alone is making new friends among the locals and these places will certainly provide you with plenty of opportunities for that.

Of course, travelling on your own has its risks, but the places listed below are among the safest. As general advice for visiting any city alone, though, be careful of where you decide to stay, watch your valuables in crowded places and be extra careful in the evenings. Stick to busy, well-lit areas close to where you’re staying rather than deserted dark alleys in far-flung neighbourhoods.

New York, USA

See the sights in the quintessential global melting pot.

New York City has more packed in a comparatively small space than you would think possible. It’s equally famous for its nightlife, restaurants, shopping and world-renowned attractions – whatever kind of holiday you like, New York is probably ranked among the top destinations in the world for it. Of course, that goes for solo travel, too.

With its extensive public transport and simple grid layout, New York is very easy to get around. While it has its rougher areas, just as any major city does, you’ll certainly be safe visiting the main hubs and attractions as a solo traveller, including Times Square, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. The city’s population is as diverse as any you’ll find in the US, so almost anyone can feel welcome and at home in the Big Apple and you’ll easily find restaurants to suit your tastes. Read more…

Barcelona, Spain

Taste the unique culture of spain’s famous seaside metropolis.

Barcelona combines the buzz of metropolitan Spain with the seaside fun of a coastal town in a surprisingly effective way. You get the best of both worlds, forming a city that is bursting with culture, but fun-loving with it. It has a distinctive atmosphere that you can enjoy just as easily on your own as you can with a group.

For the solo traveller visiting Barcelona, highlights include exploring the iconic places designed by Gaudi that give the city the feel of being a gigantic open-air art gallery. You should certainly take the opportunity to hit one of its many beaches, though the ones around the outskirts might be better options as they are generally more relaxed and popular with locals. Checking out the dining scene – especially the little restaurants in side alleys – is a must, too. Read more…

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Milan, italy, hit the shops in italy’s famous fashion capital.

The industrial city of Milan combines several different elements into one compact place, making it an excellent destination for solo travellers. You want history? Check out the Duomo, Milan Cathedral and Leonardo’s The Last Supper . You want adventure? The city makes a great hub for visits to Lake Como, Turin and Verona. You want food? Be sure to try the famous risotto alla Milanese (risotto with parmesan and saffron).

Of course, what Milan is most famous for is its shopping scene. And travelling on your own adds the advantage of giving you all the time you want to window shop and try on items. Being less famous as a tourist destination than the likes of Rome or Venice also makes it safer for the solo traveller as there are fewer touts and scammers around to hassle you. Read more…

Madrid, Spain

One of europe’s safest and friendliest capitals.

Madrid is as impressive a cultural hub as any of Europe’s ancient capitals. The Royal Palace, Prado Museum and Plaza Mayor are among the most famous attractions, though they’re barely the tip of the iceberg. And, of course, all are great for those travelling alone.

With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly residents, Madrid is considered one of Europe’s safest cities. It’s pretty easy to get around, too. Of course, the city’s famous tapas culture is a little harder to enjoy as a solo traveller, so consider signing up for a food tour to get the most out of it. Read more…

Edinburgh, Scotland

It’s easier to book tickets for the famous festivals when you only need 1.

Edinburgh is home to so many iconic sights and festivals that it has become one of the world's must-see destinations. That being the case, its tourism infrastructure has reached the level that it's just as easy to visit alone as with a group. Whether it's looking for somewhere to stay, something to do or ways of getting around, you'll find the Scottish capital is more than accommodating.

The most famous of the city's many attractions – Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace – can be visited by any number of people at any time. Visiting in August, when Edinburgh Festival is in full swing, brings its challenges, but it's easier to get tickets to the famous shows and events when you're only buying 1 seat. Read more…

Stockholm, Sweden

Get around with ease and pleasure.

Getting around Stockholm as a solo traveller is not just easy – it’s a delight! Many of the subway stations combine function with form in stunning designs, so getting from one station to the next is like walking between rooms in an art gallery. And the city’s actual art galleries are just as remarkable.

As the capital of one of Europe’s safest and most liberal countries, Stockholm is certainly safe to visit alone. Adding its fascinating culture, the beautiful architecture of the Old Town and the natural beauty of its waterways elevates the city from a safe destination to a bucket-list one for any discerning solo traveller. Read more…

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

The cultural capital of the famous party island.

Palma de Mallorca doesn’t immediately leap to mind as a solo travel destination, but you might be surprised. Certainly, the island is pretty well known as one of the Mediterranean’s many great party destinations, but the capital has a stunning cultural side that is often overlooked.

Be sure to check out the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca and the historical Old Town that surrounds it for boutique shopping and great local eats. Don’t forget to hit the beach, though transport to the sandy shores in other parts of the island can be tricky. Unless you want to rent a car, you might be limited to the 7 beaches near Palma, but they’re certainly great options. Read more…

Dublin, Ireland

Grab a pint of the black stuff and enjoy the craic.

Dublin is a legendarily friendly city, making it a fantastic destination for solo travellers. If your idea of a good trip is having random chats with locals, this is certainly the place for you. The city’s pub culture is a cornerstone of that, and enjoying a few pints of Guinness and a trad band is both a bit of a cliché and an absolute must. Of course, if you’re planning to make a night of it, you might be safer joining an organised pub crawl.

Beyond the booze, Dublin has plenty to offer the cultural traveller. The city is compact enough that it’s easy to walk around, and there’s plenty to see along the way, including Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and the National Gallery of Ireland. Read more…

London, England

Even most londoners haven’t seen everything the capital has to offer.

London might not seem especially adventurous a destination for UK travellers, but those who live outside the capital will certainly find plenty worth seeing here. With its long and vibrant history, the list of iconic sites in the city is seemingly endless. You’ll find the country’s best museums, galleries, theatres, restaurants, and much more among its historical streets.

Most of the top attractions are found around the City of London and the boroughs immediately around it, so it’s best for solo travellers to stick to this area. You’ll exhaust yourself trying to walk around it all, so make full use of the city’s many transport options for getting around. Read more…

Brussels, Belgium

Make some new friends in the belgian capital.

Brussels is perhaps a little overlooked when it comes to picking your next travel destination among the major European cities. However, it has a lot to offer, especially for solo travellers. With a friendly atmosphere, smaller crowds than you’ll find in the more popular cities and, of course, first-rate beer, you certainly won’t struggle to make some new friends among the locals.

As for things to see and do, Brussels can certainly hold its own among the other European capitals. The Grand Palace and the famous Manneken Pis statue top the list, but you’ll even find plenty of joy just wandering the ancient and beautiful streets of the Old Town. For the most part, the city is compact enough to walk around. There’s an excellent public transport system if you want to give your feet a rest. Read more…

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Caerphilly Castle, South Wales

Why Wales is one of the best places to travel alone

Potentially nerve-wracking for the uninitiated, a solo holiday can be a life-affirming experience. Travelling alone, your tastes take centre stage. As for the perfect setting? Wales boasts the versatility required for the role.

If you envisage yourself escaping into nature with little more than a backpack, Wales has a tangle of terrific hiking trails where you can do just that. Maybe you foresee a trip more focused around character development? We've got courses and classes in everything from surfing to soufflé making. Or perhaps the intended plotline involves you locking eyes with a stranger atop the romantic remains of a 13th century castle? Yes, that totally could happen...

A surfer at Dunraven Bay, Southerndown, Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales

However you see the story of your solo trip playing out, Wales will ensure it’s a classic. Here are some of the reasons why Wales is a top-drawer destination for going solo, whether it’s your first time or you’re a veteran lone globetrotter.

Harlech Castle, North Wales

Meet new friends

Wales prides itself on its reputation as a welcoming, inclusive nation. This generally makes the country a safe place to travel solo, and also one where, if you so choose, you won’t find yourself alone for long. Visitors tend to have little trouble striking up a conversation with friendly locals in cosy pubs and cafes, or simply exchanging a cheery bore da (good morning) with fellow ramblers when out in the countryside.

If you need a little push into sociability, there are also a number of holiday operators specialising in group tours aimed at solo travellers. For those seeking adventure, Preseli Venture , leads small groups of lone adventure seekers on coasteering expeditions (an activity invented in Wales, best described as a cross between rock climbing and swimming) around the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, while Adventure Tours UK’s selection of wellness trips lower the intensity levels, offering week-long itineraries of yoga and meditation, with plenty of downtime to bond with your fellow camp mates.

Coasteering in Wales

Wales also has a number of events, societies and establishments catering specifically to the LGBTQ+ community , from Swansea Vikings, one of the country’s gay-inclusive rugby teams (which welcomes spectators during the season), to The Golden Cross, a characterful, grade-II listed pub that is Wales' oldest LGBTQ+ venue.

It’s easy (and inexpensive!) to get around

From a logistical standpoint, Wales is an easy country to get around , even without a car. The country-spanning rail network can quickly and comfortably whip you from the centre of cities like Cardiff, Swansea and Bangor into the charms of smaller-town life. Equally as convenient is the bus and coach network, which webs together most towns and cities, and is typically the cheapest way to get around Wales.

For those who prefer to travel under their own steam, Wales is blessed with 1,200 miles of National Cycle Network, including a number of winding long-distance routes that tie together different parts of the country. If you are travelling with your own car, then we have a handful of top road trips too, including the glorious Wales Way routes – a must for all motorheads.

Llandudno Junction, North Wales and a cyclist in Tintern, Monmouthshire, South Wales.

© Robert Mann MA Photography

Find creative inspiration

For generations, Wales’ landscapes and people have served as the muse of artists, poets and lyricists , and following in their footsteps could be just the thing to get your creative juices flowing. 

Budding writers should make a beeline for Laugharne, where one of Wales’ most famed literary figures, Dylan Thomas, spent his final years, and where his preserved writing shed remains (to see performances of the poet’s work, time your visit with The Laugharne Weekend event). Artists, meanwhile, will undoubtedly be entranced by our selection of romantic, weathered castles . These have featured in the works of some of the greats, including celebrated British landscapist JMW Turner. Visitors can see some of his paintings in the National Museum Cardiff , which also boasts works by Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir among its collection.

Laugharne Castle, Dylan Thomas' Writing Shed, Laugharne, Carmarthenshire in West Wales, and Caernarfon Castle, North Wales.

For a concentrated dose of artistic expression, visit one of Wales’ fantastic festivals , which also offer solo visitors a great opportunity to meet like-minded revellers. There’s Hay Festival for booklovers and Machynlleth Comedy Festival for those fancying a laugh, while Green Man , Brecon Jazz Festival and the Porthcawl Elvis Fest (the largest Elvis-themed festival in the world, don’t you know!) are just a taste of the array of options on offer for music lovers.

Green Man Festival and Hay Festival, Mid Wales

Enhance your wellbeing

Solo trips often take on a meditative quality, with a lot of downtime to unwind and work through stresses. Nothing quite nurtures this state of reflection like a long walk in the countryside, and Wales has some exceptional trails to choose from . For a walk with an embedded sense of achievement, consider taking a day to conquer one of the peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia ) or Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) . Those really looking to push their limits, meanwhile, could go toe to toe with the epic 870-mile (1,400km) Wales Coast Path , which spans the country’s entire sea border.

Porth Iago beach, Gwynedd, North Wales

© © Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

For more hands-on healing, Wales is home to a number of sanative spas, where, as a solo traveller, you can stew to your heart’s content. One of the most famous is the facility on site at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort , boasting everything from scented saunas to nail salons, but St Brides Spa Hotel in Pembrokeshire wins admirers thanks to its gasp-inducing outdoor infinity pool overlooking Saundersfoot Beach.

For something more rustic, try an early morning swim and steam session at one of our beachside saunas, such as Tŷ Sawna  at Oxwich Bay.

Tŷ Sawna, Oxwich Bay, and St Brides Spa Hotel, Saundersfoot, West Wales

Try unique Welsh food 

Fussy eating companions are a bitter pill to swallow for the food-obsessed traveller, but on a solo trip you can set out to sample as many weird and wonderful delicacies as you like – and Wales has a lot of interesting foods to choose from . 

Two iconic Welsh dishes that shouldn’t be skipped are the hearty cawl, a traditional soup of lamb and vegetables, and Welsh Rarebit, a delicious take on cheese on toast we love so much we’ve given it its own day . Not quite unusual enough? How about laverbread, a type of boiled seaweed that is affectionately known as Welshman’s caviar, typically eaten with bacon and eggs at breakfast (it tastes better than it sounds!).

Timing a trip with one of our Welsh food festivals offers a great opportunity to tuck into a number of Welsh staples in a single setting (and possibly sitting). Events range from the popular, all-encompassing festivals held in towns such as Abergavenny , Llangollen and Narberth , to more niche offerings, such as Forest Feastival , which is held amidst the trees of Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve , and Conwy Honey Fai r, an event dedicated to the sweet golden substance that’s considered to be one of Britain’s oldest food festivals.

Abergavenny Food Festival, Mid Wales and Llangollen Food Festival, North Wales

Connect with nature

For urban dwellers, a solo holiday offers the chance to recharge the batteries and reconnect with the natural world. Around a quarter of all land in Wales is designated as a protected space, either as a national park or an ' Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ', meaning any nature-starved sightseers won’t have to stroll too far until they find the chirp of birds has replaced the squeal of traffic.

Craig Goch, Elan Valley and Llangorse Lake as seen from Mynydd Llangorse, Mid Wales

It’s not just the abundance of green space that sets Wales apart, however. The diversity is magnificent too, with visitors able to behold mountains, beaches, caves and waterfalls in one trip – sometimes all in the same afternoon. As for Welsh wildlife , visitors can spot porpoises and dolphins off the coast of Ceredigion, glimpse red squirrels (now sadly a rarity in British forests) on the isle of Ynys Môn (Anglesey), and join the flock of birders waiting amidst the bluebell meadows of Skomer Island to spy puffins, guillemots and gannets; a setting that makes the office feel like a world away.

Skomer Island, West Wales

Learn a new skill

Struggling to convince friends or family to sign up to that class or workshop? Sounds like an excuse for a holiday! A solo trip can be a perfect opportunity to have a go at something you’ve always wanted to try , with the added bonus that group lessons make for an authentic way to forge connections with locals and other travellers alike.

Whatever kind of activity you’re after, Wales will almost certainly have someone ready to teach you, from riding your first wave with Adventures Wales in Porthcawl to freewheeling down your first trail at Bike Park Wales near Merthyr Tydfil. For more mental pursuits, how about a drawing class at the Ruthin Craft Centre , cooking lessons at J&R School Masterclass or even learning a few sentences in Welsh at Nant Gwrtheyrn on the beautiful Llŷn Peninsula – bendigedig ! (fantastic!) 

Novice trails, BikePark Wales, South Wales

© BikePark Wales

Visitors planning to stay for a prolonged period in Wales could also sign up for a volunteering placement , allowing visitors to gain new skills and meet new people, while also typically offering perks such as subsidised accommodation or meals in return. Options range from things like farm work and construction projects to checking tickets on one of Wales’ heritage railway lines.

Porth Oer (Whistling Sands), North Wales

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15 Best Places To Visit In The UK In 2023

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Around the UK

Have you ever thought of traveling throughout the best places to visit in the UK during a vacation from your college? Hoping to fill your Instagram page with aesthetic photos from your trip? Don't worry because today we are going to list the best places to visit in the UK! We will list down some aesthetically pleasing places that will surely leave you in awe. The best part is that if you are living in the best cities to visit in the UK, you can easily take a train or a ferry and travel to these beautiful locations due to the size of the UK. So let's dive right into it!

Best Places To Visit In The UK

Embark on a journey through the spellbinding landscapes of the United Kingdom, where the tales of history dance with the beauty of nature. From the rugged terrains perfect for exhilarating hiking destinations to the smooth roads that invite unforgettable road trips in the UK . Discover the ease of UK transportation , allowing you to seamlessly navigate from iconic hiking destinations to scenic routes for the best road trips.

London, a city pulsating with history and a treasure trove of attractions along the River Thames . Dive into the British Museum for a global journey through artifacts, or revel in royal splendor at Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge's Crown Jewels . Snap a pic at the iconic Big Ben —it's practically a rule! Football enthusiasts can catch a match at renowned stadiums, while Covent Garden offers lively markets and boutiques. Elevate your view from the Shard , London's tallest building, and explore St. Paul's Cathedral for awe-inspiring moments. Families head to the Science Museum for interactive exhibits. Hungry for more? You can read our blog on things to do in London .

Cotswold is your go-to if you're craving a dose of that historical charm. Just a quick two-hour jaunt from London and cozy with Bristol and the gem we'll chat about later, Bath. This place screams rural vibes and is one of the good places to visit in the UK and is practically an Instagram dream with its scenic views. History buffs, Sudeley castle alert! It's surrounded by lush gardens and throws events year-round. For killer views, climb St. Edward's Church —it's like a real-life postcard. Arlington Row , a row of quaint weavers' cottages, and enjoy the bucolic beauty that inspired artists and designers. Families, Cotswold Wildlife Park is your jungle away from the concrete one. Oh, and don't miss Bourton-on-the-Water , the "Venice of the Cotswold."  

This city screams wow with its jaw-dropping architecture and history. Climb St Mary the Great's tower for magical city views or hit up King's College chapel, were Oliver Cromwell's army still hangs out (kind of). Springtime? Catch the epic boat race between Cambridge and Oxford. For a chill vibe, punt along the River Cam or zen out in the lush gardens. The Mathematical Bridge is like Legos on water—seriously cool! And a stroll along the Backs ? Picture-perfect views, my friend. Don't miss the bookish charm at Heffers and Wren Library . For more, check out our blog on things to do in Cambridge . 

Bath is like a time-traveling hug. The Roman baths exude ancient vibes, and the way the light dances off the buildings? Total Roman era feels! The city's pint-sized, but the Georgian architecture is ginormous on charm, making it one of places in the UK to visit. Now, let's talk about Sally Lunn's —mind-blowing food alert! It's a taste explosion. Plus, this small town has a knack for making you feel like you've found your forever home. Oh, and don't miss the Royal Crescent , a jaw-dropping row of Georgian townhouses, the Abbey for some serious history vibes, and the Fashion Museum if you're feeling fancy. 

Even though Wales is a small country compared to others in the places in the UK to visit, it has plenty of places to visit, like the city of Cardiff. This city is surely one of the best places to visit in the UK; you can start off by visiting Cardiff Castle in the middle of the city, with was built upon the remains of a Roman castle, the State Apartments , the Clock Tower , the Chapel , and a Banqueting Hall which has beautiful murals. You can also visit the Victorianesque markets in the city, which can surely be added to your Instagram stories. If you want to know more about the city and places to visit, you can read our blog on things to do in Cardiff.

York is probably the best place to visit in the UK for all medieval-era fans! The city's history can be traced all the way back to the 3rd century during the spread of Christianity. The city also boasts the country's largest medieval church, York Minster, where you can view the breathtaking stained glass murals. For excellent views of York, you can visit the 14th-century road , The Shambles, which is famous for its old timber building, restaurants and tearooms. For more things to do in York , you can read our blog.

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Liverpool, the city that's practically singing "Hey Jude" in the streets! First stop: Albert Dock , where the Beatles Story exhibit transports you to the fab four's world. Grab a stroll down Matthew Street, home to the legendary Cavern Club —Beatlemania's birthplace. Football fanatics, Anfield and Goodison Park are waiting to turn your cheers into roars. Don't miss the Liver Building standing tall by the waterfront, a symbol of the city's spirit. Many visit this city for attractions related to the great Beatles, like The Beatles Story and Abbey Road . Read our blog on things to do in Liverpool .

One of the seven wonders of the world will surely look good on your social media feed. This wonder to the west of London is among the good places to visit in the UK for history nerds. Explore the historic charm of Bath , groove to music vibes in Liverpool , and soak up culture at London's British Museum . Places to visit in England's wonders surely await the best places to visit in England once in your lifetime!

Jurassic Coast

The place only sounds prehistoric, don't worry, you won't find any dinosaurs here (duh!), but actually, you can! In the form of fossils, though. The beautiful cliffs high above sea level and the coast make it an amazing place to click some jaw-dropping photos and videos. This UNESCO -protected coastline is probably among the best places in the UK to visit.

Home to the Winterfell and the Starks. Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, and for the longest of times. Many travelers avoided it, but in recent years, it has recently become one of the top destinations in the and is one of the best cities to visit in the UK! The city is littered with historic attractions and many more! You can also visit the Titanic Belfast Museum , one of the popular attractions in the city. If you are curious about what more you can do in the city, you can read our blog on things to do in Belfast .

Manchester is just one of those cities; the city has such a cool vibe and really is one of the best places to visit in England if you want to experience a vibrant city and football. Explore iconic spots like the historic Manchester Cathedra l, feel the beat at the vibrant Northern Quarter , and revel in football history at Old Trafford. There are a bunch of things to do in England, like visiting one of the amazing stadiums in the city or going to one of the Manchester Art Gallery. There are plenty of things to do in Manchester, if you want to find out more, you can read our blog on things to do in Manchester.

Glasgow, Scotland, is a fantastic destination for those who like both cultural attractions and the great outdoors. After you've had your fill of ancient landmarks like Glasgow Cathedral and the University of Glasgow's museums, visit the most beautiful places in the UK, the green spaces such as Kelvingrove Park and the Glasgow Botanic Garden . To know more about all the fun things to do, you can read our blog on things to do in Glasgow. Glasgow, in all of its beauty, makes it one of the good places to visit in the UK. Not just this, Glasgow is a popular place for students who come from across the world to study here, check out this amazing student housing options for students.

Not only does the Snowdonia region have some of the most spectacular scenery in Wales — and that's saying a lot, for Wales is truly lovely — but it also has the UK's second largest national park, Snowdonia National Park. Hikers can spend a full day tackling as challenging a path to the top as they choose, choosing from trails that wound their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself. Those who want to enjoy the beautiful views from the top but don't want to put in the effort can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway , making it one of the best places to visit in the UK.

Giant's Causeway

It's all too easy to forget that the United Kingdom comprises a teeny-tiny portion of Ireland. Northern Ireland, which includes the "Emerald Isle's" northeast portion, The spectacular Giant's Causeway, a strikingly gorgeous natural phenomenon that appears anything but natural, is by far the most well-known of Northern Ireland's attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of remarkable columns of stratified basalt that thrust upwards from the sea and shoreline like a giant's staircase, hence their name. You must go to the new center and hear all of the tales, stories, and legends. It is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the UK.

Another educational city like Cambridge. This beautiful and historic city has something for someone. It is probably one of the places in the UK to visit  not only for studies but for traveling as well. You have to visit Oxford castle and the prison, where you will be able to get amazing panoramic views of this historic city. You can also visit the History of Science Museum if you are a history and science nerd! Our blog on things to do in Oxford will surely help you find more fun things to do while you are in the best cities to visit in the UK. Oxford is home to some of the best universities in the World, while planning to study here, you might want to check the student accommodation options as well.

These were the best places to visit in the UK, and we hope you have shortlisted all the best places you want to visit during your vacation. So what is the wait? Pack your bags, and let's go! Don't forget to checkout places to visit in winter in UK .

So you know what all places you need to explore, if you have a car that can make this journey easy going checkout our blog on how can you apply for UK driving license .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to visit in the uk for a cultural experience, which cities are considered the best places to visit in the uk for a diverse urban experience, can you recommend some good places to visit in the uk that showcase natural beauty, what are the most beautiful places in the uk that combine history and scenic views, what are some things to do in england.

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10 most beautiful places you’ll be surprised are in the UK, from waterfalls to secluded beaches

W hen the weather disappoints or the workload is heavy, we often find ourselves wanderlusting for far-flung places across the globe.

However, you don't have to venture outside of the UK to enjoy azure waters, golden sand and palm trees. In fact, for those who only look to airports, cross-Channel trains and ferries to get their holiday fill, the sheer beauty that can be found across Britain is somewhat surprising. But it's certainly a pleasant surprise, as this guide will show you.

The UK is home to Bali -esque flowing waterfalls, jungle settings that look like something from Central America , a slice of Sydney in  Devon and even an Italianate villages in Wales . What’s more, some of our beaches can compete with the best around the world (for their natural setting, if not their weather).

So when those blues are getting to you but you can’t go abroad, fear not; below are some of the best places in the UK to enjoy some strikingly exotic scenery.

Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula

A half-hour drive from Swansea, in south Wales , Three Cliffs Bay is a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marshes and the bay’s signature three limestone cliffs.

A photogenic part of the Gower Coast Path, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, and is popular for caravaning, glamping and cottage retreats.

Tinside Lido, Plymouth

Part of an Art Deco hotel that first opened in 1935, Tinside Lido closed in 1992 but returned after a successful local campaign and attained Grade II-listed status in 1998.

Its poolside views are not dissimilar to Sydney's Bondi Beach, while the salt water swimming pool is a great place to splash and sunbathe in the summer months. It currently opens every summer, from late July to late September.

Read more on UK travel :

• Where to stay, eat, drink and shop in London
• The best secret UK beaches to visit for peace and quiet
• The best dog-friendly hotels in the UK for 2023

Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Designed and built in the style of an Italian village by Sir Clough William-Ellis between 1925 and 1973, Portmeirion is one of the most unique villages in Wales.

While it may be located in North Wales, rather than the Mediterranean, Portmeirion still attracts visitors in their droves due to its scenic beauty, boutique hotels and excellent restaurants . The main village, subtropical gardens and section of beach remain the most popular attractions.

High Force, Durham

Verdant scenery and fast-flowing waterfalls give High Force the air of a Costa Rican jungle, but it can be found in County Durham. One of England ’s most spectacular waterfalls, it has a 21m drop into the beautiful plunge pool below.

A variety of wildlife and fauna can be seen at High Force throughout the seasons from wildflowers, ferns and towering trees to roe deer and rabbits.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Near to the village of Stackpole in Pembrokeshire , Barafundle Bay is nestled between cliffs and is reminiscent of a secluded bay on a Greek island. Once owned by the Cawdor family of Stackpole Court, the beach is now open to the public and has previously made the list of the top beaches in the world, while the Good Holiday Guide also named it the best beach in Britain.

With sand dunes and pine trees, the beach is accessible by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park and offers a secluded, scenic retreat.

West Bay, Dorset, England

With towering orange cliffs and beautiful clear waters, West Bay in Dorset is reminiscent of the Algarve.

With its seaside location, it's ideal for family holidays and coastal walks, while the nearby market town of Bridport has long had a stellar reputation for culture and food.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall, England

Kynance Cove is situated in southern Cornwall , not far from Lizard Point, the most southerly point in the UK. it is one of the most photographed and painted locations in the county, with beautiful white sand and blue sea, and certainly wouldn't look out of place on a Sardinian postcard.

A landscape painter's dream, the contrast between the cove’s white sand beach, emerald waters and the dark red and green serpentine rock is breathtaking.

At low tide there are plenty of sea caves and islands to explore, and its rock-towers were even featured in BBC One's Poldark.

Tenby, Pembrokeshire

On the right day, Tenby can feel like you’ve transported to Bali , with its palm trees, golden sands, blue seas and colourful buildings.

A seaside tourist town for over 200 years, Tenby is steeped in history and surrounded by a medieval wall. It's also home to four beaches; North, South, Harbour and Castle. North is popular for watersports, Castle its spectacular views and South beach for its almost two-mile stretch of golden sand. Harbour is the smallest of the four, but is ideally located on the harbour itself.

Sgwd Yr Eira, Brecon Beacons

Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall may look like a selfie spot in Thailand , but is actually found in the Melte Valley, in Wales's Brecon Beacons National Park.

Translated literally as “fall of snow”, visitors can walk behind the curtain of water on a path forged by sheep farmers, which makes for the perfect photo opportunity. The waterfall forms part of the national park’s ‘four waterfalls walk’, a six-mile loop that takes around three hours.

Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull, Scotland

Described as one of Mull’s best kept secrets, Langamull Beach is often heralded as the Mull Caribbean thanks to its white sand.

The 20-minute walk to the beach is secluded, with spectacular views justifying the journey, and there are several other walking routes along grassy dunes and low-lying cliffs. On a clear day, visitors may be able to see other small islands and Skye.

Read more on the best hotels in Scotland

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