solo trip to london england

11 ways to enjoy a solo trip to London

Whether you’re looking to reconnect with yourself, build independence, or step out of your comfort zone, London is one of the best holiday destinations for solo travelers. You’ll never have to worry about being bored or lonely—this crowded capital city is full of things to do .

Traveling alone is one of the best ways to make new friends, and with a population of eight million, you’re bound to find a buddy in London, especially if you speak English. We recommend joining a tour or simply striking up a chat with anyone at the pub.

It’s relatively safe to travel in London alone, although general precautions like being aware of pickpockets and avoiding dark corners at night apply. Getting around London is also far easier than many other cities. While the Tube might seem intimidating at first, you’ll find that it’s fairly simple to figure out .

So grab your backpack and check off this list of 11 things to do in London for solo travelers.

1. Stay in a hostel

London’s hotels can get pricey, especially if you’re staying alone. Hostels are a great idea for solo travelers, as you can not only save some cash but also build a network of fellow backpackers.

The Dictionary Hostel is a budget hostel catered to sociable travelers located in the trendy Shoreditch neighborhood. There’s a bar and even a foosball table, a great way to meet someone new. If you prefer bed-and-breakfast vibes over bunk beds, there’s also Palmers Lodge , which oozes cozy Victorian elegance.

2. Go on a bike ride

On a budget? Rent a bicycle and explore the city. You can try Santander Cycles , London’s public bike-sharing scheme, but most parks should also have bicycle rental services available. For a more guided approach, join a London Royal Parks Bike Tour to visit Hyde Park , Kensington Gardens , and other landmarks.

3. Try London’s diverse range of food

Traveling alone means you can enjoy all your favorite dishes without having to cater to someone else’s food preferences—an important perk, since London is one of the most diverse cities in the world.

Kick off your gastronomic tour by sampling London’s best street food at the bustling Borough Market . Feeling overwhelmed by all the stalls? This traditional English food tasting tour will let you check off classics like fish and chips, scones, and Scotch eggs. Discover up-and-coming food trucks at Spitalfields Market as well as other culinary favorites on this food tour of London’s East End .

It’s also way easier to get a seat when you’re eating alone in London, so it’s a great chance to check out popular restaurants like Scarlett Green , one of the best brunch spots in the world . Alexander the Great is a fantastic Mediterranean restaurant that serves small plates, so you can try a range of dishes even without someone to share them with.

4. Explore London’s museums

Museums are an ideal way to spend time by yourself, especially if you encounter bad weather. And with such an extensive range of museums and galleries in London, you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy.

History aficionados will love to walk the historic corridors of the Churchill War Rooms before heading aboveground to tour other major landmarks . Those interested in ancient beasts and creatures will enjoy the Natural History Museum , which offers skip-the-line guided tours , or the Horniman Museum , which even has a Butterfly House.

5. Browse London’s bookshops

If you ask us, there’s no better way to spend some “me time” than at a bookstore. Luckily, London is home to plenty of bookshops, ranging from small indie stores to well-stocked chains. Some of our favorites include Daunt Books , an old-fashioned shop with stunning stained glass windows; Persephone Books , which shines a spotlight on female authors; and Hatchards , the U.K.’s oldest bookshop. Gay’s the Word is also a delightful store that carries a wide range of LGBTQ+ work.

6. Join a walking tour

Explore the city and make new friends by joining some walking tours . Many small-group walking tours limit the number of attendees, so you’ll get an intimate experience. There are a plethora of options available, from a Jack the Ripper walking tour around the serial killer’s old haunts to a historical pub walking tour , where you’ll get to drink at some of the city’s most historic alehouses. Harry Potter fans will enjoy discovering J.K. Rowling’s inspirations on this tour for Muggles .

7. Pick up a new skill

One of the best vacay takeaways is learning a lifelong skill. Impress everyone back home by picking up something new, whether it’s a cocktail masterclass at Serata Hall or a cooking workshop at the Jamie Oliver Cookery School .

Hoping to get some Instagram-worthy pictures on this trip? Kill two birds with one stone with this ultimate introduction to photography workshop , where you’ll get to learn the basics while touring London’s most iconic locations. This night photography tour also offers professional guidance.

8. Go to the theater

Don’t let going solo hold you back from experiencing the magic of London's West End . The theater district is London’s answer to Broadway , and you’ll find lots of world-class plays and musicals here.

Plus, it’s easier to score a single ticket, especially for popular shows like The Lion King , The Book of Mormon , Matilda The Musical , and Wicked . If you have a flexible schedule and want to get a good deal, remember to check if rush tickets are available on each performance day.

9. Check out one of London’s best supper clubs

Wondering what to do in London at night alone? Enter the supper club, an informal communal dining experience. Aspiring chefs set up pop-up events to give their menus a trial run, which means you could be trying out dishes by the next Gordon Ramsay at a fraction of the price.

Most supper clubs’ locations are always changing, so it’s best to keep tabs on them via social media, like Alexandra Dudley’s ticketed feasts . Alternatively, restaurants like Darjeeling Express and Lowlander also host supper clubs, a nod to their former roots.

10. Meet other sports fans

Football fans, take the chance to meet fellow enthusiasts on a stadium tour. While iconic stadiums like Old Trafford and Anfield Stadium are a distance away, there are more than a few other well-known clubs in the heart of London.

Chelsea Football Club , for instance, offers an acclaimed stadium tour and immersive museum experience, as does Tottenham Hotspur . Arsenal fans will love this tour of Emirates Stadium , where you’ll get to explore dressing rooms and walk out onto the pitch. Or take a quick day trip to check out the spot where England clinched its 1966 World Cup victory on this award-winning tour of Wembley Stadium .

Not into footie? There’s also the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum .

11. Take a day trip

We highly doubt it, but if you ever feel bored in London, there’s so much more to explore outside the city. Iconic sights like Stonehenge , Windsor Castle , and the Roman Baths are just a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. And with a well-organized coach tour , you’ll be able to hit all the sights in a single day.

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• 10 best non-touristy things to do in London
• 9 common travel mistakes in London and how to avoid them
• London for book lovers: 10 spots and activities you shouldn’t miss

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

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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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35 epic things to do alone in london: solo travel guide by a local.

Are you wondering what to do in London alone? Then you’ve come to the right place.

I am not only a Londoner, born and bred, but I have also been a passionate solo traveller for many years . As I know my hometown like the back of my hand and have first-hand experience of the challenges faced by solo travellers, I can steer you towards the very best things to do alone in London.

Whether you are a culture vulture, a fervent foodie or a seasoned shutterbug, there is something for every traveller. Many of London’s famous attractions make the cut but I have also thrown in less obvious solo activities.

At the end of the article, you’ll also find London solo travel tips, including advice on choosing accommodation and safety tips for female solo travellers.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top 10 Things to Do Alone in London

In a hurry? Let’s cut to the chase.

In no particular order of preference, here are my favourite things to do in London solo.

1. Enrich your mind at one of London’s major museums

Visiting a museum is an ideal thing to do in London by yourself. Better still, entry to the permanent exhibitions in most of London’s museums is free.

Lovers of fashion and design will adore the  Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) , and history buffs will flock to the British Museum . If you are itching to learn more about our natural world, check out the Natural History Museum .

Perhaps I’m biased because I work there as a volunteer, but I love South Kensington’s  Science Museum .

Even if you are not a museum person, the buildings that these collections are housed in are works of art and  London landmarks  in their own right.

2. Visit one of London’s free art galleries

Is art more of your thing? If so, you’ll be spoilt for choice in London. Again, permanent exhibitions are usually free.

For artistic immersion, head to  The National Gallery  on Trafalgar Square.

Or pop into one of London’s Tate Museums .

Visit Tate Britain for a walk through British art history. Or if you love modern art, there’s  Tate Modern  housed in the husk of a disused power station on London’s South Bank.

More intimate galleries that I love are the Wallace Collection, the Queen’s Gallery and the Dulwich Picture Gallery .

3. Be dazzled by the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

The Tower of London is a very popular attraction for very good reasons.

Over its colourful 1,000-year history it has been a fortress and a palace. It was used to store records of government and was the site of a royal menagerie, the Royal Mint and armouries.

READ THIS NEXT: 15 Insider Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Today’s visitors arrive in their droves to gaze at the Crown Jewels, the gold and gem-encrusted ceremonial items worn by British kings and queens, and to revel in its sometimes gory history. It was from here that Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes were incarcerated and were led to their grisly fate.

Their stories and more are brought to life during the free 45-minute walking tour led by the famous Yeoman Warders, also known as ‘Beefeaters.’ Delivered with style and humour, this is one of the highlights of the Tower of London that can’t be missed.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR THE TOWER OF LONDON HERE . ENTRY TO THE TOWER OF LONDON IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

4. Embrace your inner classic music aficionado at St Martin in the Fields

If classical music is more to your taste,  St Martin in the Fields   holds regular free 30-minute concerts. I love the church’s inexpensive  café  in its crypt and its terrace cafe, both of which are inexpensive lunch options if you are in the Trafalgar Square area.

Another good option for free lunchtime concerts is the historic church of St. James in Picadilly .

5. See London’s highlights on a self-guided tour

Forget about those hop-on-hop-off tourist buses clogging London’s streets. The very best way to see the capital is on foot.

One of my favourite things to do in London is to seek out its familiar, and less familiar, sights by doing a walking tour. And the beauty of doing a self-guided tour is that you can go at your own pace (and skip the less interesting bits).

Insider Tip! Best London Walking Tour Books

• Time Out London Walks: 30 Walks by Writers, Comedians and Historians
• Walking London: Thirty Original Walks in and Around London (Andrew Duncan)
• London’s Hidden Walks (Andrew Duncan)

6. Or join a guided walking tour

If you don’t fancy going it alone, there is a good choice of  guided London walking tours  available to accommodate all interests. This can also be a good way to  meet people as a solo traveller .

From a food walking tour of Borough Market to immersion in Harry Potter’s Muggle land , there’s something for everyone.

Friends have highly recommended the street art tours in East London. However, armed with a little information, you can do this by yourself.

READ THIS NEXT: Street Art in Brick Lane, London: A Self-guided Walking Tour

7. Visit the Sky Garden

For the best free view in town, head to 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie Talkie building, home to London’s Garden in the Clouds.

The  Sky Garden  offers a 360-degree panorama of London’s iconic skyline. On a clear day, the views are sensational, from the Tower of London and Canary Wharf to the east, and St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye to the west.

Advance booking  is essential.

READ THIS NEXT: Visiting The Sky Garden, London

8. Or take in the view from The Shard

If your budget can stretch that far, buy a ticket for The View from The Shard.

Soaring to a height of over 310 meters above the River Thames, The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the highest viewing platform in London. The panorama from its viewing platforms is hard to beat.

For the best prices, buy your ticket from The Shard’s ticket office .

>>> ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

But did you know that you can visit The Shard for free ?

Aqua Shard, one of the building’s six restaurants, offers some of the best views in the building. Although you won’t reach the dizzy heights of level 68 and beyond, its double-height glass walls on floor 31 envelop you in London’s skyline.

Advance reservations are advised.

READ THIS NEXT : How to Visit The Shard for Free: A Local’s Guide

9. Take a riverboat along the Thames

Take a riverboat along the Thames for a leisurely day out and a chance to see many of London’s most famous bridges from a different perspective.

A one-day  River Roamer ticket  gives you unlimited travel on the  Thames Clippers’ service .

This will allow you to hop on and hop off between 23 piers along the river and explore some of the city’s attractions. These include Battersea Power Station to the west, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Tate Modern, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and historic Greenwich to the east.

Alternatively, why not take a traditional Thames River cruise with live commentary? Book your Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise here or your Westminster to Tower Bridge trip here .

10. Lose yourself in Kew Gardens

Strolling around the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of my favourite solo travel London activities.

Home to the world’s largest and most diverse collection of plants – over 50,000 plant species at the last count – Kew Gardens is one of the capital’s treasures.

The Temperate House  and the  Palm House  offer a warm winter refuge for plants and visitors alike and are jewels of Victorian engineering.

Embrace your inner child by walking across the  Treetop Walkway , suspended 18 metres above ground and offering a bird’s eye view of the forest. Or check out Kew Gardens’ art installation,  The Hive , an immersive sight and sound experience.

Although there’s something to see in Kew Gardens all year round, I prefer the explosion of colour in springtime and the spectacular foliage of the arboretum in autumn.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TICKET FOR THE KEW GARDENS. ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

Best Things to Do in London Alone During the Day

11. explore london’s smaller museums.

By ticking off the major museums on our travel bucket lists, there’s the risk that the smaller museums are omitted. If you are in a city for a limited time, this is inevitable as priority is given to the big hitters.

London is home to some wonderful, smaller museums which are perfect for mooching around alone if time permits.

Local’s Tip! My Pick of London’s Best Small Museums

London Cinema Museum – for a journey into cinema’s past

Horniman Museum – a quirky natural history museum in a beautiful setting, famous for its giant stuffed walrus

Museum of Brands – for a surprisingly fascinating insight into marketing and brands.

12. Join a tour or talk at The British Museum

The  British Museum  is one of my favourite hangouts and it has a stimulating programme of events year-round. These range from excellent  free gallery tours , that are led by volunteers, to more in-depth explorations of cultural and historic subjects.

You can just turn up on the day for most of the free gallery tours. However, book online for the paid-for talks as these are very popular.

But if you miss out on the talks, don’t miss out on the museum. It truly has a world-beating collection, from imposing African statues to the glorious Lindisfarne Gospel from Northumbria’s  Holy Island.

13. Dive into WW2 history at the Churchill War Rooms

Step back into the dark days of the Second World War by visiting the fascinating Churchill War Rooms .

This painstakingly preserved subterranean warren was home to Churchill and other top-ranking British officials during World War II. From here, the British government directed the Second World War.

The sense of history is almost tangible.

14. Plan your next solo trip in an old-fashioned bookshop

A bookshop is a perfect refuge for the solo traveller. Sadly, in these days of Amazon – other online retailers are available –  bookshops are becoming rarer, and those with character rarer still.

Luckily for us locals, London has managed to cling onto many of its bookshops.

King amongst these is  Daunt Books  in Marylebone. Solo travellers will be bowled over by its extensive collection of travel publications, perfect for an hour’s browsing.

15. Bag a good spot for the Changing of the Guard

There are few things that Britain does better than pomp and ceremony, and the Changing of the Guard is an excellent place to experience this.

The Changing the Guard is when the King’s Guard transfers responsibility to the New Guard and spans three locations: Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks.

This 45-minute ceremony takes place on select days (typically Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) and starts at 11 a.m. Times and days do change and you should check the schedule here .

This spectacle is completely free to watch. That said, to understand what is going on and to bag the best spots, it’s worth looking at this inexpensive walking tour with a local guide.

16. Take a stroll along the Victoria Embankment

There are so many London walks from which to choose but this one takes in many of London’s top sights.

The 2km Victoria Embankment river walk from the Palace of Westminster to Blackfriars Bridge is a perfect way to spend an afternoon by yourself.

If the weather is kind to you, take a break in the  Victoria Embankment Gardens  near Charing Cross Station. A café is open in the warmer months, and there are summer concerts on the garden’s bandstand.

Alternatively, if you are seeking open spaces, walk the Pymmes Brook Trail in North London.

17. Smell the flowers in Columbia Road Market

Visiting at least one market is a good use of time during your solo trip to London. There are so many to choose from:  Portobello Market, Brick Lane Market ,  Old Spitalfields  and  Borough Market  to name but a few.

But my favourite has to be the  Columbia Road Flower Market , which is one of the best things to do in London by yourself on a Sunday.

On one day of the week, this East End road is transformed into a blooming wonderland, the air perfumed with the scent of flowers. Arrive early to get your pick of the blooms (the market opens at 8 am).

Or if you are after a bargain, arrive around 2 pm when the stallholders start to reduce their prices. The market closes at 3 pm.

This area between Shoreditch and Brick Lane is also packed with vintage shops, and fantastic cafes and delis. Perfect for Sunday brunch.

18. Borrow a four-legged friend for the day

If you are missing companionship, why not borrow a dog for the day? The innovative  Borrow My Doggy  pairs dog owners with dog sitters.

What could be better than having a canine companion to explore London with? And you get to help out dog owners.

19. Explore Maritime Greenwich

There are few better solo days out in London than taking the riverboat to Greenwich and exploring its collection of UNESCO-listed buildings. It helps that it has welcoming riverside pubs and restaurants.

Although it is most famous as the place of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian of the world, its buildings and historic landmarks showcase English artistic and scientific endeavours in the 17th and 18th centuries.

• The  Queen’s House  – first Palladian building in England.
• The  Royal Naval Hospital  – originally designed by Christopher Wren and further embellished by other architects, including Nicholas Hawksmoor.
• The  Royal Park  – expansive views over London and home to the  Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum  and Meridian Line.
• The  Royal Observatory  – the baseline for the world’s time zone system and for the measurement of longitude around the globe

20. Take a day trip from London

Thanks to extensive rail connections, it’s super easy to  take a day trip from London .

With its broad shingle beach and cool bohemian air,  Brighton  is a very popular day trip from London. The university cities of  Oxford  and  Cambridge  are also great choices for a day out.

Even Liverpool , home of The Fab Four, is reachable as a day trip from London.

For something a little different, but no less historic, try  Rochester  in Kent , which was once the home of Charles Dickens. Visit one of the  seaside towns in Kent  or walk along the dunes of  Camber Sands  and explore the neighbouring town of  Rye , West Sussex .

Finally, if you’re in the mood for a walk through ancient woodlands, I highly recommend heading to  Epping Forest   in the northeast corner of London, which is spectacular in autumn.

READ THIS NEXT: 31 Easy Day Trips from London by Train

But perhaps you want someone else to take care of all of the arrangements for you or want to benefit from the knowledge of a guide? There are some day trips from London where it makes sense to join an organised tour with a guide.

Here is my pick of the best

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London but is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Full-Day Cotswolds Tour 

Like Stonehenge, exploring the Cotswolds’ chocolate box villages can be tricky if you don’t have a car. This excursion visits four of its loveliest villages – Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold – and is led by a live guide.

21. Learn a new skill

Learning a new skill as a solo traveller works well on so many levels. Apart from the potential enrichment resulting from the activity, it is a fun way to spend time in a strange city and a fantastic way to meet new people.

Check out  obby  to find classes that are available around London. There really is something for everyone, from calligraphy and cocktails (assume that the writing comes first!) to eco pouch making with sustainable designers.

22. Take a class at the School of Life.

London’s School of Life  has an extensive programme of classes and workshops, focussing on helping attendees find fulfilment in key areas of their lives.

Speakers discuss a range of subjects from how to find love, to developing your emotional intelligence.

23. Start your weekend with a Park Run

If you are in London by yourself on a Saturday and have your running gear with you, why not take part in a  Park Run ?

These organised 5K runs are great fun as well as good places to meet new people as a solo traveller. Sign up for free on their website.

24. Unleash your inner Ginger Rogers at a dance class

If running isn’t for you, consider dropping into the famous  Pineapple Studios  in Covent Garden for a dance class.

From tap to hip hop, there are classes for all levels, throughout the day and well into the evening. Prices are from £10 for an hour’s session; advance booking is required.

25. Rent a bike to enjoy London’s parks

For something a little more leisurely, rent a bike to explore one or more of London’s wonderful parks. The  Hyde Park loop  is particularly good.

You can rent one of the distinctive  Santander Cycles . Download the Santander Cycles app or go to any docking station with your bank card and touch the screen to get started.

For a fun way to explore London and to meet other solo travellers, join a guided bike tour of London that takes in the city’s highlights such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, as well as some hidden spots.

26. Treat yourself to afternoon tea

There are few more quintessentially English culinary experiences than afternoon tea.

High tea, as it is also called, is usually served between 2 pm and 4 pm and typically includes crustless finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweets and pastries. These are arranged on a tiered platter and are served with your choice of tea (or coffee).

Put aside a few hours for this experience. To make it truly special, why not add a glass of champagne?

Afternoon tea is served in a large number of venues across London (start by checking here ). But you can also combine eating and sightseeing on an afternoon tea bus or having high tea sailing along the Thames .

27. Pack a picnic for one of London’s parks

London is home to more than 3,000 parks, covering almost 18 per cent of the capital. The best known of these are its eight Royal Parks, which include Hyde Park, St. James’s Park and Regent’s Park.

These are the perfect spots for a DIY lunch or supper. Do as the locals do. Grab yourself a “meal deal” from a mini-supermarket (typically a sandwich, drink and fruit/bag of crisps for under a fiver) and pick the perfect spot in the park of your choice.

No dining companions are required.

28. Read a book over a flat white

Let’s be honest. Rain is not an impossibility in London.

Cosying up in a  café  is a good wet weather standby if you are alone in London. Order your coffee – and something decadent to go with it – open up your book or laptop or just people watch.

Solo Travel in London: What to Do at Night

29. lose yourself in a good movie.

Solo cinema-going should be the norm, not the exception.

Let’s face it; why do you need to go with someone else to watch a movie? Whilst a shared post-movie critique can be fun, it’s not as if you’re going to chat with one another during the film. Or I sincerely hope not.

I’m a total cinephile and go to the cinema on a weekly basis at the very least, often on my own. To my mind, hunkering down in a cosy cinema on a winter afternoon takes a lot of beating.

In central London, my go-to place for a dose of movie magic is  Picturehouse Central . Big screens, comfortable seats, good café and thoughtful programming.  Plus its Members’ Bar is one of the best spots in London to grab a drink!

For a boutique cinema experience, try the theatres in the  Everyman Cinema  chain.

As their screens tend to be smaller, this is not the best option for those big blockbuster movies. However, what the Everyman lacks in screen size, it gains in comfy sofas and armchairs, some with footstools, and waiter service to your seat.

For a journey into cinematic past, pick Prince Charles Cinema (off Leicester Square). This retro-styled cinema has a wonderfully eclectic programme at bargain prices for its central location, especially if you take up their cheap membership.

>>> Get inspiration to book your first solo visit to London with these dreamy quotes about singles travel or through these books by female solo travellers

30. Browse the BFI’s Archives in the Mediatheque

Another favourite place to watch a movie is the  British Film Institute (BFI)  on the South Bank, which is also home to the uber-cool Mediatheque.

The Mediatheque comprises booths with comfortable seats where you can settle down with a film or TV programme from the BFI’s extensive and diverse archive collection.

And best of all, it’s absolutely free and open until 9 p.m.

31. Attend evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral

Welcome to another of my favourite places in London, the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral.

If you are not pushed about scaling the cathedral’s dome, why not attend one of the choral evensong services? You can check the schedule here .

Not only is this completely free, but you also have the opportunity to hear the choir in this acoustically sublime setting.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL HERE . ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

32. Catch a play or musical

Another great thing to do in London by yourself is to go to the theatre.

London has so much going on theatrically, suiting all tastes and budgets. And as a single, it is easier to score a single ticket.

33 Experience Elizabethan London at The Globe Theatre

See Elizabethan theatre brought vividly to life in one of London’s most famous buildings,  Shakespeare’s Globe , built a few hundred meters from the original Globe, where many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed.

I’ve seen a few productions here and it is an unforgettable experience. In an attempt to reproduce the bawdy atmosphere of 16th-century theatre-going, “groundlings” stand in the central space in front of the stage. Applauding and jeering are actively encouraged.

As much of Shakespeare’s Globe is open to the elements, the theatre operates a summer programme only. Groundling tickets sell for as little as £5.

34. Dine at a supper club

The prospect of  eating out alone  is enough to bring even the most experienced solo traveller out in a cold sweat.

If you are visiting London alone and don’t fancy a table for one, why not try one of the city’s  supper clubs ?

These imitate spaces are where aspiring chefs test their offerings before committing to the rent of a permanent home. As such, you can eat very well for a fraction of the usual price.

Plump for one that offers long sharing tables, which are good places to strike up conversations with new people.

READ THIS NEXT: Solo Dining with Style: 21 Tips To Make Eating Out Alone Fun

35. Sip a G&T in a  London pub

I’ve saved one of the best things to do alone in London until last.

Few things are as quintessentially British as a pub, and just because you are travelling alone doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on this experience.

One of my favourite central London pubs is the  Fitzroy Tavern  on Charlotte Street in Fitzrovia. This Victorian boozer oozes history and has been the haunt of many a London luminary over the years, including Dylan Thomas.

Head upstairs to bag one of the pub’s comfy armchairs. Write your journal, read a good book and order a glass or two of your favourite nectar. And you never know, you may soon make new friends.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller in London

Choosing the right place to stay as a solo traveller is an essential part of your travel planning.

London is a pricey city in which to stay, especially if you are travelling alone. You’ll pay a premium for staying within the central (transport) Zone 1; prices usually start to drop the further you venture.

Base yourself in one of these zone 1 neighbourhoods: buzzy Soho or Covent Garden , trendy Hoxton , elegant Mayfair , or Islington with its abundance of excellent bars and restaurants. All of these areas have good transport links.

Here are a few options to consider:

Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden

Centrally located on The Strand, one of London’s most historic streets , this aparthotel offers a range of rooms, including those with a kitchenette. I have used Staycity in France and was very impressed.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK

Citadines, Islington

These modern studio apartments in the heart of Islington have all you need for a successful solo trip to London, including a fully equipped kitchenette.

Covent Garden Hotel

This wonderfully located hotel in the charming Seven Dials area of London is one of the boutique Firmdale Group properties in London. It’s not cheap but it is one of the best places to treat yourself (it also has a great bar and restaurant).

9 Hertford Street

This one-bedroom apartment is a more affordable luxury choice, a stone’s throw from Green Park. Extremely elegant but also functional.

>>> None of these places takes your fancy? Check out other great accommodation choices in London here .

London Solo Travel Tips

Getting around london.

London is a surprisingly walkable city. The key is to pick a neighbourhood and stick with it.

That said, it’s very unlikely that you’ll avoid the need to use public transport in the capital .

The London Underground, or “Tube,” network is extensive and covers most areas, at least north of the river. But it’s hard to beat bagging the front seat at the top of one of the city’s red double-decker buses, which serve some of the areas the Tube doesn’t reach.

Contactless payment or pre-paid Oystercards make it easy to use the capital’s buses and trains

The London River Bus is a tourist activity in itself, providing a more leisurely way of getting from A to B. Additionally, iconic London black cabs, Uber and Bolt are readily available.

Cycling is increasingly popular, thanks to London’s growing network of bike lanes.

Solo Travel London: Safety Advice

London is one of the safest and best destinations for solo travellers in Europe , even for those who are taking their first solo trip . For English speakers, the locals talk your language. This is one of the most diverse cities on the planet and one that is tolerant of all types of people. Save the occasional wobble, London’s transport system is extensive and user-friendly. This is a very busy city at all times of the year, and this activity helps to keep things safe. As in many cities, petty crime is not unusual. I have friends who have had their bags swiped on the Tube and valuables lifted by nimble-fingered pickpockets in pubs.

Remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you, stash your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I have  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Take steps to keep safe as a female solo traveller . A little bit of common sense goes a long way. If a street or an area doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and don’t go wandering alone. Avoid walking through London’s parks after sunset.

READ THIS NEXT : 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

How to meet people in London

My Italian friends love London but cannot understand why people don’t make eye contact on the Tube, let alone talk to one another. And here’s the thing; striking up random conversations with strangers on public transport or on London’s streets is a no-no.

It’s not that the natives are inherently unfriendly or rude; it’s just not the cultural norm. But the good news is that there are a number of better ways to meet people as a solo traveller in London.

Although my days of sleeping in a dorm are behind me , I’ll be the first to admit that hostels are great places to meet other travellers.

As I’ve mentioned, joining a day tour or activity, learning a new skill or taking part in a Park Run are all ways to meet people.

Perhaps you are an avid photographer or a keen walker? Then why not indulge your passion and meet other people using Meetup . This online tool lists events that cater to a vast range of interests.

You can also make use of apps like Tourlina or Backpackr to find travel companions and locals.

The great British pub is always a good bet, especially if you prop up the bar.

READ THIS NEXT : 21 Easy Ways to Meet People While Travelling Alone

Saving money as a solo traveller in London

London has a not undeserved reputation as an expensive city. However, there are ways that you can save money when visiting London alone.

There are tons of free activities , from London’s first-class museums and galleries to its acres of parkland.

Eating out doesn’t need to cost a packet. Buy food supplies from small supermarkets dotted across London (e.g. Tesco Express) and stick to cheap and mid-range eateries.

London has two excellent sightseeing passes .

Use the London Pass for unlimited sightseeing across 90+ attractions over a set number of days. Alternatively, a London Explorer Pass allows you to decide how many attractions you would like to visit in a 60-day period.

Buy your London Pass here , and your London Explorer Pass here . To find out more, check out my London Pass review or this lowdown on the London Explorer Pass .

Thank you for reading my solo travel London guide

I hope that these ideas and tips help you have the best London solo trip. If you are looking for more information about what to do in London, take a look at some of my other articles below.

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? THEN READ THESE NEXT!

• 30 Famous London Landmarks
• 30 Famous Streets in London You Must Visit
• 23 Famous Bridges in London
• 32 Easy Day Trips from London by Train
• Virtual London Tours: The 10 Best Armchair Travel Experiences
• 10 Tasty Foods in London That You Must Try

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

9 Tips for an Unforgettable Solo Trip to London

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London is one of the best cities in the world, and it is so easy to plan and execute an epic solo trip to London!

In fact, London might just be the easiest city in Europe for solo travellers to navigate.

Especially inexperienced solo travellers.

I’ve been to London way more times than a person needs to, and I never get bored of it.

There is an amazing public transportation system, tons of tourist attractions for you to explore, and while the city has a reputation for being expensive, there are ways to visit London on a budget!

All things considered, if you’re planning your first solo trip to Europe, London should be at the top of your list!

Heck! Even if your’e planning your millionth solo trip, London should be in the running.

It is that good of a city!

In this post, we’re covering the top 10 tips and tricks you need to plan a solo trip to London.

It is pretty easy and straightforward to plan a solo trip to London, but there are a few very important things you need to know about before you embark on your solo trip to London.

And I’m spilling all those secret tips right now!

Things nobody tells you about solo travel

Table of Contents

1. London is More Walkable than You Think

The biggest misconception I had about London on my first visit was that it was a massive city, and you have to rely on public transportation to get around.

That is simply not the case!

London is a very walkable city!

In a lot of instances, it is easier to walk from place to place rather than take the Underground. This is especially true when you’re in central London and walking between major tourist attractions.

It may seem like you should take the metro from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus- especially if you’re looking at a metro map and not a normal city map.

But you don’t!

The walk talks about ten minutes, and it takes significantly less time than taking the Underground does.

Especially since with this example you need to transfer lines, which means the journey will take even longer!

So, don’t just look at the metro map and think things are far away.

They really aren’t!

And even places that are a bit further away are very walkable.

There are tons of parks in London, and in most cases your walk from one place to another will be beautiful and filled with nature!

I like to walk as much as possible when I’m on a solo trip to London.

It saves a lot of money, and you stumble on things you wouldn’t otherwise see.

Plus it is a nice way to get some exercise and make room for all the yummy food you’ll be eating throughout the day!

So, pull out your Google Maps and figure out how long it takes to walk from one place to another rather than just guessing based on a map.

If it takes less than half an hour to walk there, I say go for it!

2. Public Wifi is Basically Non-Existent

Unfortunately, the public wifi network in London leaves a lot to be desired.

In fact, it is downright disgraceful how difficult it is to find public wifi in London. Even a lot of restaurants and cafés don’t offer free public wifi to guests!

This can make it a bit difficult and frustrating for solo travellers in London.

You may find yourself in the awkward situation where you’re dining alone and don’t have anything to distract you. Or perhaps you’re unsure where to go next or where to eat or the currency conversion.

Tips for eating alone at restaurants

There are plenty of reasons why someone travelling alone in London may need to access the internet, but you are often limited in where you can access it!

There are a few options for accessing the internet when you’re in London:

• Rent pocket wifi for your trip
• Invest in your own personal wifi hotspot ( Skyroam is my favourite)
• Use your phone data
• Some hotels provide a complimentary cell phone for you to use while you’re in London. You won’t be able to access your social media or personal apps, but it is better than nothing!
• Research what restaurants and tourist attractions offer complimentary wifi
• Simply live without accessing the internet throughout the day

The lack of public wifi isn’t the end of the world, but it is something I like to warn you about.

You would expect such an international city to offer a better public wifi system, but it doesn’t.

A complete guide to wifi in London

No Matter What You Have to be Internet Safe

No matter how you choose to access the internet while you’re in London, it is important that you’re internet safe while you’re online.

Even if you rent a pocket wifi device or have your own Skyroam , you will be accessing public wifi at some point when you solo travel in London.

Whether it be at a hotel, the airport, or a restaurant.

You put yourself at risk whenever you use a public wifi network! Anybody and everybody can access public wifi networks, and if they want to, it is relatively easy for them to steal your private online data.

Including your banking information!

And yes. Even public wifi networks that have passwords are still considered to be public wifi, and you have to protect yourself!

The only way you can protect your online information is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially cloaks your devices and prevents prying eyes from accessing your online data.

It also helps prevent Google from using your online habits to serve you with those annoying targeted adds!

A VPN makes using a public wifi network as safe as using your home wifi network where you’re the only person who knows the password.

In my mind, having a VPN on all your devices is an essential (an non-negotiable part of travel).

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over my years of travel, and I have to tell you that I hated most of them.

VPNs have a tendency of slowing your devices down to a snail’s pace, and it can get frustrating to use them. Oftentimes, I found myself turning off my VPN because my phone/laptop was operating so slowly!

That all changed when I found NordVPN !

I’ve been using NordVPN since 2018, and they are the only VPN provider I’ve continued my subscription with past the first year.

They are the fastest VPN on the market, and that is such an important competent when it comes to choosing a VPN to protect your online data while you travel.

Plus you can cloak your location and make it look like you’re in a different country than you actually are!

This allows you to access Netflix libraries from other countries!

It may not sound like much, but I promise you’ll become addicted to exploring new Netflix libraries and all the fun shows and movies you can’t access in your home country.

I highly recommend checking out South Korea’s Netflix library!

A NordVPN subscription costs less than the price of a single latte per month.

There is zero excuse not to protect your online data while you’re on the road. The small price you pay to protect your online data is well worth it when you compare it to the cost of having, say, your banking information stolen while you’re alone in London.

My philosophy is that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online data from prying eyes!

3. Don’t Eat near Popular Tourist Attractions

This is one of the best tips I can give you for your solo trip to London!

The restaurants and cafés near the most popular tourist attractions charge you significantly more than places outside of tourist hubs, and the food tends to be not as good.

I’m specifically thinking about the line of restaurants on the walk from Westminster Abbey to Trafalgar Square.

Avoid those restaurants at all costs!

And if you’re in dire need of some food when you’re in these major tourist areas, stick to chains like Pret a Manger where you know the food is good and the prices fair.

Even though they are chains, I highly recommend everybody try Pret and Nando’s when in London. They are affordable, and the food is delicious.

If you’re looking for good food, get off the main tourist train and find your way to some of the lesser known neighbourhoods.

You can always find good food in Chelsea, Earl’s Court, and Angel neighbourhoods.

London South Bank also has some great restaurants and has a great vibe. Especially if you’re able to snag a seat overlooking the Thames!

But where ever you choose to eat, your wallet will thank you if you avoid the most popular tourist destinations.

Your stomach will thank you too!

4. It is Worth Paying to Stay in Zone 1

The London Underground system is broken up into different zones, and the fare price is based on what zone you’re travelling in and between.

Zone 1 covers central London and the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

The problem with zone 1 is that it is where the most expensive hotels are too.

Makes sense since it is so close to all the tourist attractions.

It can be tempting to cheap out and stay in a less expensive hotel in zone 2 or 3, but I don’t recommend that.

Especially for people on a solo trip to London!

Why You Shouldn’t Stay Outside Zone 1

The first reason I suggest that people stay in zone 1 is the convenience of it. You are so close to the major tourist attractions, and you can walk a lot of places.

The second reason I don’t suggest staying outside of zone 1 has to do with the cost of transportation.

Both in a fiscal sense and in terms of the cost of your time.

It can take a long time to travel from outside zone 1 to whatever tourist attractions you want to visit.

This means you’re stuck on the metro for an extended period of time. You will most likely have to transfer between lines as well, which adds even more time to your commute!

Staying outside of zone 1 also means you’re essentially reliant on public transportation.

Your life is dictated by when the metro/bus are (or aren’t) running, and you don’t really have the ability to walk everywhere from your hotel like you do in zone 1.

So while it may seem like it isn’t worth staying in zone 1, and it is a better choice to save money by staying outside central London, I caution you to think long and hard before you make that choice.

When you factor in the convenience of being in central London, the ability to walk, and the added cost of transportation, it is definitely worth staying in zone 1!

My personal favourite neighbourhood to stay in is Earl’s Court.

It is on the outskirts of zone 1 just before zone 2. The hotel prices are pretty good, you pay zone 1 metro prices, and you can still walk pretty much anywhere you want to go in under an hour!

My Favourite Place to Book Hotels

9 times out of 10 I book my hotels through Hotels.com .

I find their search function so easy to use, and they often have the best prices on hotels. Excluding, perhaps, booking directly through the hotel.

Always be sure to compare the Hotels.com price to the price of booking directly with the hotel!

Outside the ease of using the site, the reason I love Hotels.com so much is their rewards program!

It is the easiest hotel program to earn free stays with!

Once you stay 10 nights in any Hotels.com hotel, you earn a free night!

I’ve earned and redeemed countless free hotel nights, and it hardly takes any effort to earn a reward. It makes travel much more affordable. Especially if you’re like me and travel for extended periods of time.

My secret little tip is to save your hotel redemption for a stay at an airport hotel. I always find I don’t want to use my own money for these hotels, and I love using my rewards night there!

But do whatever you want with your rewards nights just as long as you take advantage of them!

5. Museums are Your Best Friend

If your initial reaction to this tip is to roll your eyes, read on a little bit further and hear me out!

London has some of the best and most celebrated museums in the world, and the best part is that the vast majority of them are free to visit!

You can visit world class attractions without spending a dime, and that is why you should visit as many museums as you can while on your solo trip to London!

In Kensington alone, there are three museums right next door to each other!

They’re all different, so I guarantee you’ll find something you’re interested in checking out.

And if you don’t like the museum, you just leave! It didn’t cost you a dime, so you don’t have to explore the entire museum just to get your money’s worth!

If you only have the chance to visit one free museum while you travel alone in London, I suggest it be the British Museum.

It has a little something for everybody and has some of the most priceless artifacts in the world!

The museum is quite busy as you can imagine! It is best if you avoid visiting it on the weekend if at all possible.

No matter what museum you choose, take the time to wander through at least one. It isn’t really a trip to London without visiting a museum or two!

Be sure to check if there is a price of admission before you arrive at the museum!

The majority of museums in London are free to enter, but there are a few that have an admission fee, and they’re normally quite expensive!

Unless you’re obsessed with the topic matter of a museum with an entrance fee, it is best to stick to the free ones!

T he best things to do in Kensington

6. Get Discounted West End Tickets

I wholeheartedly believe it isn’t a true trip to London if you didn’t go to the theatre!

New York’s Broadway gets a lot of attention for its theat re shows, but London’t West End shouldn’t be overlooked!

There are 39 theatres in London’s West End showing everything from famous musicals to obscure shows you’ve never heard of before.

I’m a huge theatre lover, but even friends and family who don’t love the theatre have enjoyed seeing a show on the West End.

The only problem is that tickets can be quite expensive. Especially if you buy them in advance and see the most popular shows.

There is a way around this though!

There are two discount theatre ticket providers in London:

Today Tix is my personal favourite place to purchase West End tickets at a discounted price.

All you have to do is download the app, look through the shows, and find one that sounds interesting and is in your price point.

The tickets will be delivered to the theatre on the night of your show, and all you have to do is show a piece of ID to pick them up!

My favourite parts about Today Tix is that it is an app, so you can purchase your ticket whenever and where ever suits you best.

You can also purchase tickets for shows a few days in advance, so you’re not limited to only buying tickets for shows showing on that particular day.

It is a very flexible ticket platform.

TKTS is similar to Today Tix, but you have to go to their booth in Leicester Square and purchase your tickets in person.

You can also only purchase tickets for shows being performed on that day.

The lines at the London TKTS aren’t nearly as long as the ones at their New York locations, but you can still often find yourself waiting for half an hour or so until it is your turn to purchase tickets.

The good news about the London TKTS location is that you can go to their website and see what shows they have tickets for that day and the prices.

This eliminates the potential of you waiting in line and them not having tickets for the show you want to see!

But, overall, it is kind of a pain to use the TKTS booth while in London, and I suggest using the Today Tix app instead!

7. Make Time for a Day Trip

It is so easy to get caught up in all London has to offer and spend your entire trip just exploring London.

I get it! I’ve visited London multiple times and just stayed in the city the entire trip.

But that is one of the biggest mistakes you can make on your solo trip to London!

The UK is an amazing part of the world, and there is so much to see outside of London and so many amazing cities that are just a short train ride away!

I’ve even managed to take a day trip to Wales from London in the past!

One of the best trips I can give you for when you’re partaking in solo travel in London is to get out of the city and see what else there is to explore!

You can take an organized day trip to some of the most popular towns and locations around London.

Or (if you’re like me and like to do everything yourself), you can hop on a train or bus and head to another city to explore by yourself.

One of my top recommendations for a day trip from London is Brighton.

It less than two hours away by train and has a completely different vibe than London. You can check out a detailed guide on how to travel between the two cities here .

It is definitely one of my favourite cities in England!

No matter where you choose to explore, I don’t think any solo trip to London is complete without exploring somewhere a bit outside the city to get a deeper understanding of the country outside of the capital city.

41 things to do along the Brighton seafront

8. Parks Aren’t Lit at Night

London is typically a very safe city for solo travellers, but there is one exception to that: the city parks during the night.

I know this is an odd tip to have in a post about solo travel in London, but I think it is an important one.

It is certainly one I didn’t know about, and it resulted in a stressful walk back to my hotel after a West End show one evening!

I want to help you avoid this experience!

I just assumed when I was walking home one night that the parks would be lit up, so I planned my path to walk through Hyde Park and Kensington Park.

Well, to my surprise, Hyde Park was pitch black with not a light in sight, and Kensington Park was already closed for the evening.

Of course, I could have changed paths and walked along a more lit street, but I’m stubborn, and I was already a bit of a ways into Hyde Park when I realized there were no lights.

At that point, I just wanted to walk as fast as possible to get to the end of the park and find some lighting.

So, if you’re ever walking around at night while on a solo trip to London (or anytime really), be sure you walk on main road and leave the parks for daylight hours.

If you find yourself in a situation when there are no lights, and you’re quite nervous about walking alone, be sure to pull out your cellphone and either use the flashlight app or call someone who can talk with you throughout your walk.

You should still be safe, but your heart will probably be pounding.

City streets will result in a much more relaxing walk home!

The best things to do in Kensington

Unique Solo Travel Safety Tips

9. Get an Oyster Card

I know I’ve talked a few times about how you can walk central London with little to no issue, but you will still need to use public transportation while you’re in London.

Sometimes you just can’t get around using public transportation, are too tired to walk back to your hotel after a long day, or don’t want to walk in the dark.

I feel you!

Even just getting to and from the airport requires you to use public transportation in most instances.

And that is where the Oyster card comes in!

The Oyster card is London’s transportation card. It saves you a bit of money on fares and saves you a lot of time because you just tap in and out of the metro/bus and don’t have to worry about purchasing a ticket each time.

I believe having an Oyster card is an essential part about travelling to London!

You have to pay a  £5 deposit when you get your Oyster card, but it is fully refundable if you choose to return it at the end of your trip.

I still have my first Oyster card from 2014 and keep using it each time I visit London, but if you don’t think you’ll be back, definitely return it for a refund.

That is a short and sweet explanation of the Oyster card.

There is more you should know, but the main thing to know if that you need to have an Oyster card on your solo trip to London!

Everything you need to know about the Oyster card

Solo travel in London is an unforgettable experience.

There are so many different things to see and do, and the city has a vibe and culture that is unbeatable!

There are so many different cultures and people in the city, and you never know when you’ll stumble upon a unique piece of culture, history, or food while you’re wandering through London.

As I said before, I truly believe that taking a solo trip to London is one of the easiest trips to take to learn the ropes of solo travel.

It is super easy to navigate the city, there is an attraction for anyone and everyone regardless of your tastes, and you won’t be overwhelmed with culture shock.

Plus so many flights to Europe land in London, so you may as well stop in and enjoy London before embarking on the rest of you European vacation.

It is not a city you want to miss out on!

Related Posts

• 5 Tips to Survive the London Underground
• 15 Epic Tips for Planning a Solo Trip
• 10 Epic Tips for Solo Travel in Prague

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?

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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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40+ Epic Things to Do in London alone: London Solo Trip

Posted on Last updated: February 27, 2024

This, my friends, is not your average guide to things to do in London alone. While this list focuses on girly things to do in London alone for solo female travelers , it’s a fantastic resource for anyone traveling to London who wants non-touristy things to do.

Of course, I’ve included some touristy attractions because you’ll probably want to see some classic London landmarks while traveling solo in London. In this list of things to do in London solo, I’m taking you deeper to enjoy the locals-only side of the city.

Also, I want to thank my good friend Hayley, who helped me research what to do alone in London (read: drink beer with me in fun pubs and hunt for the city’s best pies). Hayley is a Londoner and runs a rolfing clinic in London that helped cure me of my phobia of heights! You can find out more about Hayley and her work here .

P.S. If you want to find some great photo spots in Central London, read this Instagram guide to London .

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best London Tours :  Click here to check out the top London tours Best London Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in London Best London Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in London

What to Know Before Taking a Solo Trip to London

London is like any big city in the world—at first, it may feel unwelcoming like everything is moving too fast. Put your city face on and try not to look fresh off the plane, and you’ll be power-walking around the Underground like a local in no time. Things move fast, so people can seem unfriendly sometimes. In reality, London is a multicultural city with some of the world’s friendliest people.

Petty crime is rife here, so watch for pickpockets, especially on a London solo trip. I’ll cover more on this in the safety section, but always stay aware of your belongings and surroundings.

London Transportation

Navigating London’s public transportation system may take some getting used to. Once you have the hang of it, you’ll be flying! For years, I traveled throughout London on the Tube (underground subway) as I had no idea how to walk from place to place.

This was before the days of smartphones and Google Maps when I had a small subway map in my purse . As I began figuring out my directions above ground, I was surprised to discover many places are faster to walk to.

My point is, don’t solely rely on public transport—do some walking too. Not only is London a great city to walk around, but it’s also an excellent way to orient yourself and get comfortable exploring alone.

Walking and bus tours are other terrific options for enjoying the best walks in London . I recommend taking a bus tour for a break from all the walking you’ll be doing. Most recently, I tried the London Night Bus Tour and highly recommend it. I booked with Keetoo , which saved money on my ticket (more about that later).

If you decide to make some day trips, renting a car in London is a great call. I’ve driven in and out of London several times, and it isn’t bad if you avoid the congestion charges. Nothing beats a solo trip UK spent on the road ! There are many nice places to visit nearby, such as Bath , Brighton, and Oxford.

These days I have two apps on my phone that I rely on for moving around London:

Citymapper : This is the best app for getting directions from point A to point B with public transport. It helps you find the best route and even tells you the cost of the different options.

Google Maps : I always check this out of habit to see if it’s quicker to walk rather than use the transport. If you are using the maps to walk, remember to be safe and put one headphone in to listen to directions without constantly staring at your screen.

There are many must-have travel apps for London on this awesome guide , so download them before your solo trip to London.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Are There Safe Things to Do in London Alone at Night?

Regarding safety for solo traveling to London, it’s important to trust your gut and be on guard. Especially if you’re taking your first London solo trip. If you need to get home at night, this is important. We’re all different, and although I might feel comfortable walking home at night in a well-lit area, not everyone will. Typically, the lights stay on in Central London, and there are almost always people walking around. Buses run 24 hours, and the Tube is pretty safe to take at night or early in the morning. If you feel uncomfortable, take an Uber or find someone to travel with.

During the daytime, there are several things to be aware of. The most common safety concerns in London are petty crime—pickpocketing and card fraud are the main issues. The last time I stayed in London, a girl in my dorm had her passport taken from her purse on the Tube. If you have a card with a contactless payment chip, get an RFID-blocking wallet or purse. Be alert, don’t leave anything in your pockets, and secure your bag.

Another popular tourist scam in London involves fake tickets. Whatever you do, don’t buy tickets from anyone on the street. Only buy tickets for shows, sports games, and concerts from official ticket vendors.

Solo Trip UK Packing Essentials

Wondering what to pack when traveling solo in London? I wrote a whole blog post you can read here to help you decide what to put in your suitcase and backpack.

Speaking of backpacks, I recently tried the new Shell Backpack system from Tropicfeel, and I’m OBSESSED! Tropicfeel is my number one travel brand for multifunctional travel backpacks and shoes. I recommend the Shell as your main pack for London and the handy Fold-Away Cruiser as your day bag.

I also LOVE the Sunset Sneakers for city trips—they’re waterproof and lightweight, and the backs fold down so you can slip them on and off in the airport.

Where to Stay During Your Trip to London

London isn’t my favorite city in the world for hostels , although there are some fun and quirky London hotels that will make your stay more interesting. 

I was impressed by the and the area it was located in. I always consider location as a solo female traveler because I want my accommodations to be convenient and safe.

The Astor Hyde Park scored a 10/10 on all my safety tests for solo traveling to London. It’s in a posh area near Hyde Park and the Royal Albert Hall. I took 9 or 23 buses late at night and felt safe walking back alone. It was easy to navigate by walking or public transportation, and there was a 24-hour Tesco close by.

The daytime staff were friendly and knowledgeable about the area. You can ask them any questions, and they’ll help you. The Astor has five properties throughout London and York , where they organize daily events guests can sign up for. They also host a charity breakfast for £1, which has helped them raise £150k for charity since starting in 2014.

You can also enjoy a free nightly dinner (donations are accepted) if you don’t want to cook for yourself in their kitchen. I highly recommend staying here to save money and be in a safe and convenient area of London. It’s my top choice of the best hostels in London for solo travelers.

To sweeten the deal even more, if you book directly with them and discount code ASTORLUV, you’ll get an extra 10% off the total cost… You’re welcome!

If hostels aren’t your thing, here are a few other options: Leicester Square One Z Hotel Trafalgar Montagu Place Hotel The Nadler Covent Garden

Saving Money in London

Wondering what to do alone in London on a budget? First, check all of the attractions you want to see online. You can save money by booking ahead for concerts, performances, and museum tickets.

The Keetoo App is my favorite travel tool if you want to see some of the most touristy things to do by yourself in London. I downloaded it to visit The Tower of London and do a Night Tour and saved over £10 off the total price. The app is easy to use, and you can save money on restaurants. 

Download Keetoo on Google Play or iTunes .

Map of Solo Things to Do in London

I’ve included a handy map below of the top things to do in London on your own to help you navigate the city.

Things to Do on Your Own in London During the Day

This isn’t your average list of what to do in London alone, so I’m not telling you to see Buckingham Palace or Trafalgar Square —that’s what your Lonely Planet Guide is for. Instead, here are some super quirky and girly things to do in London by yourself that you won’t find in your everyday guidebook.

Breakfast at Borough Market

I love Borough Market , especially if you go in the morning before the crowds of tourists. Head there early and enjoy breakfast at Maria’s Market Café. You can get an egg and bubble bap with a cup of tea for about £5—it’s a great “no-nonsense” British breaky. Once you’ve fueled up, wander the market, sampling the smelly cheeses and fresh breads. You can also check out some of the best vegan restaurants in London, many of which are close to the market.

Visit the Tate

Need recommendations for things to do in London solo when the weather is bad? Visiting the Tate is always a good idea. While you must pay to enter most London museums, many have a free element. The Tate costs a bit to get in, but you can enter the atrium for free. There’s always an exhibition there, and it’s a beautiful space. There are also plugs and tables, so it’s also a great place to spend a few hours working if you’re a digital nomad solo traveling to London.

Cruise Down the River for £7

Instead of paying £20 for a fancy river cruise, take the clipper and use your Oyster Card ! You can hop on the ferry at Westminster/Embankment and take it to Greenwich and back. I recommend getting off and exploring Greenwich if you have the time. Once you hop off the boat, you must pay again to reenter. This is one of my top recommendations for things to do by yourself in London during the day or the evening, as it’s beautiful around sunset. They even offer a bar to treat yourself to wine while cruising.

St. Martins in the Field

E njoying a free classical concert is one of the best things to do in London on your own. St. Martins in the Field stands in the heart of London on the corner of the city’s famous square stands. Here, you can enjoy a free daily classical concert at 1:00 p.m. Check out the timetable here .

Punch and Judy

Punch and Judy is a classic London activity you should try. Even if a puppet show isn’t your thing, there’s always something happening in Covent Garden , an iconic London spot.

British Library

The British Library is beautiful and one of my favorite places to chill and escape the crowds. You can tuck yourself away in plenty of nooks to read a book. Arrive early, and you might find a table to work at for the day. The library offers fast WiFi and a cute coffee shop to keep you caffeinated.

Swim in the Pond

My friend recently moved to Kentish Town and discovered these hidden gems: ponds open year-round on Hamstead Heath . They’re incredible, but I’m unsure if I should write about them if they become overcrowded!

Ladies, if you visit London during the milder months, you don’t want to miss this. The Ladies’ Pond is secluded and hidden in a picturesque meadow. Once you enter this magical place, you’ll find women relaxing in the open air, naked or semi-naked, reading books , picnicking, and, of course, swimming. It’s one of the most joyous things to do solo in London and costs just £2 for a day pass.

Parliament Hill Lido

London is full of lidos open throughout the year, making them ideal things to do solo in London whenever you visit. Yes, even during winter, swimmers get their laps in! One of my personal favorites is the Parliament Hill Lido .

Maritime Museum

This museum in Greenwich is one of my favorites because you can dress up as a sailor. It’s free to enter, and doesn’t take long to wander around. Greenwich is a great area of London to wander around, and this museum makes a good starting point.

Parliament Hill Farmers Market

You’ll find this famous and popular Farmer’s Market on Parliament Hill every Saturday morning. Besides the live music and great food, it’s also an excellent place to look for celebrities. Many stars live in this area and frequent the market on Saturdays, so keep an eye out!

Green Spaces

London has many green spaces, from larger areas like Hyde Park to small communal gardens. Take some time to kick back and relax in a park or two during your London solo trip. If you want to be super British, why not “nip in” to M&S for picnic food?

Prince Charles CineOnicester Square

If you look carefully amongst the giant flashy cinemas in Leicester Square, you’ll spot the Prince Charles Cinema . This small independent cinema shows a mix of arthouse and classic films alongside new releases. It’s a fantastic theater and offers cheaper tickets than most of its giant neighbors.

The Huskers

Ice hockey in the UK?! Yes, that’s right! You can find the Huskers team tearing up the ice at Alexandra Palace. Check the schedule in advance and catch a game during your London vacation.

Free Museums

London is expensive, and finding free things to do on your own in London can be challenging. Head to South Kensington (near the Astor Hyde Park Hostel) to find three of my favorite London museums: the Natural History Museum , the Science Museum , and the V&A Museum (Victoria and Albert). All these museums are free to visit and located next to each other, making them easy to visit in one afternoon. The National Portrait Gallery is also free and not too far away.

The Wallace Collection

While on the subject of free galleries, I always try to visit The Wallace Collection when traveling to London. It contains one of the most significant private collections of artworks ever transferred into public ownership.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese 

If there’s one thing Brits do better than anyone else, it’s pubs—lucky for you, London is full of them. Located on Fleet Street, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese usually has sawdust sprinkled on the floor and some exciting tales to discover. Although there’s been a pub at this spot since 1538, the original was destroyed during the Great Fire of London and rebuilt in 1667. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese claims to have famous regulars, including Charles Dickens, Samuel Johnson, and George Orwell.

Word On the Water

Word On the Water is London’s quirky floating bookstore. This shop consists of a house in a canal barge in Kings Cross. It’s well worth a visit if you are a book lover!

Portobello Market

Although Portobello Market has become super gentrified over the last decade, it’s still worth visiting and has some hidden gems. Once you’ve finished shopping in the market, skip the expensive hipster bars and restaurants and head to The Earl of Lonsdale Pub at the top of Portobello Road. It’s cheap and has an excellent atmosphere for solo travelers.

Things to Do Alone in London at Night

Gordon’s wine bar.

As a solo female traveler, I hesitate to go out to bars at night as I don’t feel comfortable sitting and drinking alone. But if you’re looking for fun things to do in London by yourself at night that involve wine, Gordon’s Wine Bar is your place!  It’s super cute and dimly lit inside, so you can happily sit and enjoy a glass or two of wine without feeling exposed or worried about getting harassed by unwanted attention.

Lates at the Museums

Of all the fun things to do in London alone at night, this is probably the most cultured. Late-night museum openings, or “lates,” are becoming popular in London. They’re great for dating as wine is available, and they’re very sociable events. For a fun night out in London, Google “London museum lates,” as there’s an ever-changing selection.

St. Martins in the Field (at Night)

Famous for its free classical lunchtime concerts, St. Martins in the Fields also hosts a free evening candlelight concert. You can view the full schedule of events here .

Royal Opera House Lates

The only negative about Royal Opera House Lates is they only happen once every three months. I’ve heard they’re fantastic fun, so check out the timetable and go if you happen to be in London when they have one.

Nowhere Special

Nowhere Special is a Prohibition-style cocktail bar in Kentish Town that you could easily miss. The only way to identify it is to look for the exterior light, which is only turned on when the bar opens daily at 5:00 p.m. Inside is a basement bar with seating for 30, low lighting, and an incredibly creative cocktail menu.

Golden Eagle

Looking for unique nighttime things to do alone in London? The Golden Eagle is a fabulous pub that transports you back in time with its cozy, friendly atmosphere and hand-pulled ale. The real selling point for this London watering hole is a chap called Tony “Fingers.”

He’s been a regular fixture every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday when he takes to the piano, belting out tunes that get the entire place singing. My night out here was so much fun that it’s somewhere I return to with friends and alone. Arrive early so you can sling a few pints down to get you in the mood first!

See a Gig at Union Chapel in Hackney

Union Chapel in Hackney is no ordinary church. In addition to weekly Sunday services, it offers a complete program of events, from guided tours to nightly gigs. You’ll feel safe and enjoy experiencing this solo London activity at night.

Go to a Ceilidh

This is another of my favorite things to do in London at night if I happen to be there on a Friday evening. Each Friday in Camden Town, head to the Ceilidh Club , where you can dance the night away to a live band at a traditional Ceilidh. Don’t worry if it’s your first time—each dance is called out first for practice so you can familiarize yourself with the steps.

If you know you’ll be there on a Friday, I strongly advise booking as far in advance as you can since it gets jam-packed. The club holds 70 tickets at the door, but you must arrive before 6:30 p.m. as they sell out fast. This is a super popular event and possibly my top recommendation for fun nights out in London as a solo female.

Visit the Theatre

London is the theatre capital of the UK, so  it would be rude to miss out on an evening performance. While the West End can get expensive for backpackers, there’s much more to experience. For dance, head to The Place close to Euston Station. I recommend the Oh Creative Space, The Round House , or Camden People’s Theatre for theatre.

Pub Theatre

If you haven’t already realized, we like pubs a lot in the UK! So much so that we even have theatres in them. One of my favorite pub theatres in London is the Kings Head Pub Theatre in Angel . Founded in 1970, it’s famous for being the first theatre pub since Shakespearean times. The actual theatre is a room at the back of the pub originally used as a boxing ring and a pool hall. They host various shows and performances but book online to avoid disappointment.

Every Saturday night in Mile End, the Palm Trees has the same band playing for an eclectic mix of hipsters and boomers, dancing the night away and having fun. The building itself is a Grade II-listed public house built in 1935. These days, it stands alone in a blitzed-out street, looking a bit out of place. You can also sit outside by the canal during the summer, enjoying a few pints.

The Netil Bar Hackney

The Netil Bar is a huge roof terrace bar, garden, café, and workspace in Hackney with incredible views of London. It’s well worth a visit—check out the schedule, as they often play films or have live DJs on the weekends.

Where to Eat in London

Borough market.

When asked where I want to eat in London, I’ll say Borough Market nine times out of 10. If nothing strikes your fancy in the market, you can also find many great restaurants in the surrounding streets.

To try British English curry, you must check out Brick Lane. Here, you’ll find a row of Indian restaurants offering poppadoms and free drinks. If curry isn’t your thing, visit London’s 24-hour bagel shop and a whole restaurant dedicated to cereal, alongside some of my favorite London street art pieces.

The Truman Brewery

Truman Brewery is more than just a place to eat—it’s an arts and multimedia venue in East London, home to independent shops, galleries, markets, bars, and restaurants. They have many great food options and host special vegan nights for those who avoid animal products.

Eat Traditional Fish and Chips in Poppies

To sample traditional fish and chips, visit one of the three Poppies locations in London . The original is in Spitalfields, but they also have shops in Soho and Camden. One of my favorite things about Poppies is that they also make delicious grilled fish if you can’t stomach all the fried food.

South Bank – Strada

There are many great places to eat around the South Bank, especially during the holidays when all Christmas markets are out. One of my favorite places to eat in South Bank is Strada, an Italian restaurant with a modern twist. There’s something for all tastes, with a menu of hand-stretched pizza and freshly made pasta. I highly recommend the fresh pasta dishes paired with a glass of wine.

Enjoy a High Tea

You can’t come to London and not experience one of the most British traditions, high tea! We British love our tea, and there are plenty of places to experience this. My top recommendations are The British Museum , The Wallace Collection , The Ritz , The Savoy , and Claridge’s . Wherever you go, confirm if you need to book first, and be aware there are often strict times and dress codes depending on how fancy the venue is.

Duck and Waffle

Duck and Waffle is the best 24-hour restaurant for brunch in London. It’s delicious any time of day, but I especially love brunch there. Depending on what kind of mood I’m in, I opt for the traditional full English breakfast or the caramelized banana waffle.

Zedels claims to be the only real brasserie in London, with an authentic art deco French vibe hidden in the Piccadilly area of London. With its French 1930s feel if you dress up. You must reserve a table, as this place is popular with locals and tourists.

Godard’s Pie Shop 

Get down to Godard’s Pie Shop in Greenwich for a serving of pie mash and liquor. Godard’s is a family-run business serving up pie and mash (and the odd jellied eel) since 1890. Everything is freshly baked throughout the day and served piping hot.

Enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast at the Spaniards Inn

At the top of Hampstead Heath, this traditional British pub serves up a weekly Sunday roast dinner worthy of venturing off the beaten path. The pub has more than a few stories, as it was built in 1585 and was a tollgate on the Finchley boundary. The rumor goes that highwayman Dick Turpin was born there, as his father was the landlord for a time.

Sample the Best Breakfast in London

Looking for London’s best greasy spoon cafe where you can get a tasty London fry-up? Look no further than The Shepherdess . This no-nonsense cafe is about as British as it gets, with plastic sauce bottles on the table.

UK Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for UK?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to UK which you can read  here  and you can also check out my packing list for UK on Amazon  here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in UK?

I strongly recommend using  Bookaway . You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in UK?

I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

What to Do in London Alone FAQs

Is london safe to travel to alone.

Yes, London is considered a safe destination for solo female travelers.

What are the best things to do alone in London?

Grab some food and drinks at a traditional English pub, visit the city’s local parks, and enjoy a late-night museum tour.

Is London safe at night?

London is generally safe to travel at night if you stay alert and stick to well-lit areas.

Final Thoughts on So lo Things to Do in London On Your Own

That was my London solo trip guide! It’s a big one, but I hope it’s useful on your next solo trip to London and helps you decide what to do in London alone. Show this post some love and share it on social media!

Sunday 16th of October 2022

Brilliant. Thanks for sharing. Is this a group for ladies only ?

Claire Summers

Friday 25th of November 2022

Yes I'm afraid so

Sunday 10th of July 2022

Hey thanks for such an informative article. I have a question. If i book an oyster card in advance, online it says they will deliver it to my mailing address in London. In that case, on arrival into London airport, how do i pay for the tube/hetrow express travel to paddignton station. Request you to kindly let me know. In that case is it better to get an oyster card at the airport itself. Thank you for taking the time out to read and respond to my query. Thank you.

Tuesday 29th of November 2022

TBH I think. these days you can just pay with your card if you can use it for contactless payments. Or use Apple pay. Otherwise I'd just get one at the airport.

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Guide to Planning a Solo Trip to London

Today I want to share my guide to planning a solo trip to London with you. There are lots of great things to do alone in London for visitors. Whatever you’re into, the city offers plenty of ways to have fun on your own. Read on for my travel tips.

Solo Trip to London

One of my favorite things about London is that there’s so much to do. I’ve spent years living here and I still feel like I haven’t done and seen all there is to experience. Whether I’m with others or on my own, the UK capital has a lot to offer.

As a visitor, there are plenty of ways to enjoy London alone, and London is good for solo travelers. I’m an introvert and I spend a lot of time exploring the city solo, so I know this from years of firsthand experience. I’ve also traveled solo all over the world.

From the main attractions and the best museums to famous landmarks and fun markets , there’s plenty for you to discover by yourself in London.

Where to Stay in London as a Solo Traveler

One of the questions I get asked most often is “where is the best neighborhood to stay in London as a solo traveler?”

The good news is that there’s no right or wrong answer to that. There are plenty of places you can stay in the city on your own, from central London neighborhoods to local areas outside Zone 1.

When I’ve planned trips for clients who are traveling solo, I’ve recommended everything from apartments in Hampstead to hotels in Victoria .

My go-to hotel recommendation for solo travelers in London is The Resident . If you prefer the social atmosphere of a hostel, Wombat’s City Hostel London is a winner. You can take a look at my guide to the best area to stay in London for more ideas.

The bottom line is that it’s really up to you and your travel style. If you feel more comfortable staying in a hotel , that’s great. If you want your own place or somewhere that you’ll be staying with others, that’s fine too.

Most places in London are as safe as they are in any big city, and if you stay central or in a good local area, you should be fine. You can see a range of options and book a place to stay here . My guide to quirky hotels in London has fun ideas, too.

Things to Do Alone in London

As far as planning for what to do while you’re visiting, there are plenty of things to do in London on your own. Whether you’re into markets, walks, museums, music, food, or something else, the city offers plenty of ways to have fun alone.

If you want to explore the city on foot, you can check out my free self-guided London walking tours . They’ll show you the high streets and hidden corners of many areas of the city, and they’ll help you get your bearings.

If you’re into meeting people or you want a guided tour, there are plenty of options as well. Taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour is a great way to get a feel for the city and interact with fellow travelers. You can book one here .

The same goes for Thames cruises . They’re fun ways to take in the city’s major landmarks on the river and meet people while you do. You can book one here .

Depending on your interests, you can also take a food tour , a street art tour , or another guided tour that fits your passions. You can see a range of options and book one that appeals to you here .

If you’re planning to take any side trips while you’re here, I recommend going with Rabbie’s Tours . I’ve done a number of day trips and multi-day tours with them, and I’ve always met other solo travelers.

In fact, on one trip I did with Rabbie’s there were only solo female travelers, which made it a lot of fun for all of us. You can see options and book a tour here .

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog post about 51 things to do alone in London . It has loads of ideas for your trip.

Where to Eat and Drink Solo in London

One of the biggest challenges for me when I travel alone is finding places to eat where I don’t feel conspicuously solo. Over the years I’ve gotten wise to ways to feel comfortable eating alone when I travel.

The same is true for London, where I often eat alone if I’m walking around the city by myself all day.

The UK capital’s many food markets are my top picks for places to eat solo in London. From Borough Market to Camden Market , there are a lot of places you can enjoy a quick meal on your own in London.

Pubs are also good choice. They’re great whether you want to settle in for a solo meal or get social with others around you.

If you’re after a quick meal, there are plenty of places in London you can eat on the go. From Leon to Pret, they offer order-at-the-counter service.

If the weather is nice, you can get your meal to take away and eat in a local park or on one of the benches along the Thames. In the summer, there are great picnic spots in London as well.

Dinner can be trickier for solo travelers, especially if you want to enjoy a sit-down meal. But London has plenty of restaurants where you can eat at a bar top or counter and feel less conspicuous than if you were at a table for one.

From the famous Padella in Borough Market to Lina Stores and Kiln in Soho, there are plenty of places you can go. I love the communal tables at Ottolenghi, too.

Cost of a Solo Trip to London

A lot of people wonder how to budget for a solo trip to London. The truth is that costs can vary depending on your travel style.

If you stay in a 5-star hotel in Knightsbridge and eat at Michelin-starred restaurants every day, you’re going to spend a lot more than if you stay in a hostel in east London and buy groceries.

While London can be more expensive than many other places, there are also a lot of free things to do in London . From museums to parks and walks, you can easily spend all day in the city and only pay for food.

Speaking of food, that can range in price as well. Groceries can be surprisingly reasonable in London compared to places like the United States. Eating at casual restaurants like ICCO in Fitzrovia or Roti King doesn’t have to break the bank, either.

My overall recommendation is to take a look at what you think you’ll be able to spend on the entire trip, how much each activity you want to do costs, and which kind of accommodation you’re interested in. Then you can back into a budget.

Once you’ve allotted money for sightseeing, tours , and other activities, you can see what there is left per day for accommodation and food. That will help you stay within your plan.

Safety for Solo Travelers

Another question I get asked all the time is whether London is safe for solo travelers, especially solo female travelers.

While it’s impossible to guarantee safety, I’ve always felt comfortable in London (and I’ve walked down a lot of streets alone at night over the years).

If you use good judgement and common sense, you’ll likely be fine. I always try to avoid areas that are empty or have reputations for being rough, especially after dark. But in central London there are few of those.

It’s also a good idea to keep your wits about you and stay sober if you’re alone. While that might not sound fun, it will probably allow you to make better decisions and stay safer.

I also recommend watching your coats and bags at casual restaurants and pubs. Instead of hanging your bag off the back of your chair, put it in your lap or at your feet. Try to make sure your coat is secure while you’re sitting down, too.

Above all, don’t let fear prevent you from visiting London (or hinder your enjoyment while you’re here). I’ve lived and traveled in cities all over Europe, and I’ve felt safer here than in most other major urban centers.

How to Meet People in London

If you’re interested in meeting fellow travelers or locals on your solo trip to London, there are a number of ways you can do so.

As I mentioned before, going on tours can be a great way to meet other people. Local pubs are always a good bet, too, especially if you sit at the bar in the evening.

In addition, there are plenty of apps you can use to meet people. From dating apps to Bumble BFF and Facebook groups, they can be great ways to connect with others.

There are also lots of meetups and events going on in London for all kinds of interests. You can use the Meetup website or join global networks like InterNations to find ones that appeal to you.

If you’re part of a university alumni network, there are plenty of opportunities, too. For example, many American alumni groups have active chapters in London.

They host regular events and happy hours, and they’re fun ways to connect with fellow alums when you travel. If you’re curious, you can look online to see whether yours has a presence in the UK capital.

Above all, when meeting people, keep in mind that it’s somewhat taboo to talk to strangers on the tube, bus, or in the street in London.

People aren’t unfriendly or rude, it’s just not the done thing to approach people randomly and strike up a conversation. Using the other methods I suggested will likely yield better results.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to planning a solo trip to London, and that it’s made you feel both comfortable and excited about visiting the UK capital by yourself.

There’s a lot you can do and see here on your own, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy exploring the city as much as I do. Happy travels!

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The best things to do in London alone

By Cassie Doney

There’s sometimes an unfair stigma attached to doing things by yourself, but letting the fear of being judged hold you back only leads to missed opportunities and yet another night in front of Netflix. It is a statement and practicality to do things alone in London , a city where you can find something new to do every day, but you can't always guarantee a friend will be free to tag along. Whether you’re making your first  solo trip  to the city or you’re a bonafide Londoner with an unexpectedly free weekend looking for  things to do , these are the best things to do in London alone.

1. Savour the joys of dining solo

There’s a particular pleasure to dining alone that has nothing to do with the food and everything to do with skipping the queue. Dining alone is the perfect opportunity to try a fully-booked or high-demand restaurant, as you’re almost guaranteed to be ushered past a snaking line of people waiting for a table once the staff realise they can fill a spare seat. The first few solo meals can be intimidating, so ease yourself in. Opt for a sit-down lunch instead of supper, seek out casual canteen-style eateries or anywhere with counter seating, bring a book in case you get tired of people-watching, and know that no one is looking at you with anything other than envy that you’ve got the last seat. Whether you’re ordering as many small plates as you can eat at Bao , tucking into a bowl of hand-pulled noodles smothered in chill oil at Xi’an Biang Biang or strolling past the queues outside Kiln , a solo supper at one of the best restaurants in London is an experience to be relished.

2. Catch a show at the Globe

As somewhere you’re supposed to be silent anyway, the theatre is a no-brainer when it comes to solo expeditions. Going for a single seat also gives you much greater flexibility than trying to find a row altogether, so you’re not relegated to restricted viewing simply for the sake of sitting with a companion. The capital is full of venues showcasing everything from upbeat musicals to avant-garde theatre productions, so much so that it can be hard to choose; our guide to  upcoming theatre shows  might help you narrow it down.  The Globe  is a must-visit for London first-timers or Shakespeare aficionados, although if you’re hoping for a comfortable seat, you’re out of luck – the historic pews are hard enough that they sell cushions for an additional charge. For an even more authentic experience, buy a groundling ticket. In Shakespeare’s time, it cost just a penny to stand in the Yard to watch the production, but inflation understandably bumped the price up to £5. It’s still a bargain, but we’d recommend opting for one of the shorter plays, if only for the sake of your feet.

3. See an independent show

Many independent theatres also sell limited numbers of returned or unreserved tickets on the day, so you might be able to snag entrance to a production that’s ostensibly sold out.  The Bush Theatre , which showcases a diverse range of rising talent, sells Count Me In tickets for many of its performances to fill stray seats; it’s always a gamble, but you might bag a front-row ticket to the next big thing for a fraction of the cost.

4. Go on a bike ride

Unless you’ve got a tandem, riding a bike is inherently a solo activity, and with a bike stand on almost every corner (and a different smart electric bike provider popping up seemingly every week), the best way to explore London is on two wheels. If it’s your first time riding in the city, avoid the crowded roads and roundabouts in favour of some  quieter cycle routes  through the prettiest  parks  and forests in the capital.

5. Catch a film

The cinema, possibly even more than the theatre, is an activity that lends itself to solo outings; there’s no arguing over what film to see, you can arrive as early or as late as you like and you won’t have to share your popcorn.  London’s full of quirky independent cinemas  where you can settle in for a couple of hours of escapism. For a cheap and cheerful option, you can’t go wrong with the  Peckhamplex , where tickets for every show come in at just £4.99; on the opposite end of the scale, head to  Everyman’s Screen on the Green  in Islington to enjoy a glass of red in plush velvet seats. After a visit to the monstera-filled Conservatory (another excellent solo activity) cross the road to the  Barbican Cinema , which hosts frequent film festivals and foreign-language titles you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. The  Ritzy Picturehouse  in  Brixton  more than lives up to its name, a lovingly restored 1911 spot that screens everything from arthouse classics to the newest blockbusters. For even more history check out  Portobello’s Electric Cinema . One of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in the UK, it opened in 1910 and showed silent films for almost 20 years – not because of some arthouse stance, but simply because ‘talkies’ didn’t yet exist. It remained open through two world wars, escaped reinvention into an antique market thanks to a petition signed by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Anthony Hopkins, and in 1993 became the first Black-owned cinema in the UK – if you were to make a film about any cinema, it would probably be this one.

6. Take a walk

Some spots, of course, are  best explored on foot ;  Hampstead Heath  is perfect for a soul-soothing stomp.  Canal paths  always make for a scenic stroll, especially if you opt for a section of  The Line  (London’s first public art walk stretching from the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to the O2). Here, you’ll find sculptures made of shopping trolleys, brightly painted bridges and a slice of a ship.

7. Enjoy London's nature

Wander through greenhouses and orchid festivals at Kew Gardens , peer at medicinal plants (and their poisonous doppelgängers) in the Chelsea Physic Gardens, or spend an afternoon in one of London's many secret gardens .

8. Spend an afternoon at a market

Perusing one of London's best markets is arguably at its most enjoyable solo – you can spend as much time dilly-dallying through the crowds as you like. We particularly love Columbia Road Flower Market . It may be overrun with people taking selfies, but you can still buy bright bunches of tulips, fragrant bundles of dried lavender, and enough houseplants to start your own conservatory. Go right after opening (8am) for the best selection or right before closing (around 2.30pm) for the best bargains.

9. Take a dip

Pay a visit to one of  London’s outdoor swimming spots  – the  Hampstead bathing ponds  and the  Serpentine Lido  are ever-popular (if chilly) options, but if you’d like something a little warmer the heated  London Fields lido  may be a safer bet.

10. Check out one of the capital’s most unusual museums

Heading for a solo  London museum  outing is a guaranteed antidote to the fatigue of dragging yourself through yet another exhibition room of Roman coins – skip everything that doesn’t immediately catch your eye and breeze right past the gift shop at the end. It’s also an opportunity to try out one of London’s quirkier spots. If medical oddities and off-beat curios (including delights such as a piece of graverobber William Burke’s brain in a jar and Napoleon's toothbrush) are your thing, head to the  Wellcome Collection.  For a spot of fantasy window-shopping, stop by  The Fashion and Textile Museum  to see their ever-changing exhibitions –with no permanent collection, it’s a new experience every time.  Sir John Soane’s Museum , in particular, is a perfect solo outing; it’s got an air of the antique shop about it with cluttered corners and more marble statues than the British Museum.

11. Indulge in some retail therapy

As one of Europe's major fashion hubs, shopping in London is some of the best in the world – and there's endless sartorial inspiration to draw on. Heading out solo means you can trawl shop floors at your own speed and linger in changing rooms styling up potential purchases. Skip the glassy shopping centres and head for some of the capital's neighbourhoods instead: in Marylebone, for example, pop into Mouki Mou on Chiltern Street has jewellery, art and one-of-a-kind fashion labels and Koibird for perfect holiday picks.

12. Browse one of London’s best bookshops

Unless you’re in a book club, reading is the ultimate solo activity and there’s no end to lovely  bookshops in London  to find your next favourite novel. From the multi-story behemoth of  Foyles  on Charing Cross Road to the small-but-mighty  Gay’s the Word  in  Bloomsbury , you could spend a day or more getting completely lost in stacked-high shelves. For some travel inspiration, head to  Daunt Books ; the original  Marylebone  store, with its custom-made wooden bookshelves, old-fashioned prints and grand staircases, feels more like a museum than a shop. Leaving the centre,  New Beacon Books  in Finsbury Park is the first Black-owned bookshop and publishing house in the UK, and  Books in Peckham  has an excellent selection of second-hand treasures and independent zines to add to your reading list.

13. Go to a yoga class

Exercise classes in general are pretty great solitary activities – none more so than yoga, when chilling out and tuning into your mind and body is the name of the game. London is home to dozens of lovely yoga studios. Yoga on the Lane in Dalston puts a real emphasis on thoughtful breath-led vinyasa yoga and self-care – drop-in classes are £15. Afterwards, head for a bite to eat round the corner at Little Duck The Pickelery for simple, seasonal dishes that spotlight the joys of fermenting.

14. Learn a new skill at a workshop or class

Taking a class or workshop in a skill or hobby you've always wanted to pick up is the perfect thing to do alone – it's practical, hands-on, led by an instructor and might lead to you making friends with your fellow classmates. Try pottery at Skandihaus, flower arranging at Grace & Thorn or candle making at Earl of East, all found in East London.

15. Join a walking tour

Whether you're visiting London as a solo traveller, or live in the city and want to spend more time doing things alone, a walking tour is a great choice. You'll learn more about the capital – perhaps about its history, architecture, or street art.

16. Treat yourself to a spa day

This is a frenetic city at the best of times – so carving out part of your day to spend in one of London's best spas is a smart move. Thankfully, there are lots to choose from – Aire Ancient Baths in Covent Garden is found in the basement of a 17th-century building and inspired by Greco-Roman  spa  traditions. The space has five baths of different temperatures to wander between, and you can get a massage while you're here, too. For something more classic, book into Claridge's Spa in Mayfair – this huge underground space opened in 2022 after years of renovations, and is a wonderfully spoiling place to while away a day.

17. Seek treasure while vintage shopping

Whether after second-hand clothes (try The Vintage Showroom in Covent Garden or Retromania in Pimlico) or antique homewares, vintage shopping is an activity best-enjoyed solo. Make a day of it in Shoreditch and Dalston at the likes of Beyond Retro and Paper Dress Vintage, or spend a Sunday morning walking around Portobello Market looking for one-of-a-kind finds.

Antique shop in Notting Hill

Dreaming of solo travel in London? Here’s your guide to the best of the British capital

We could write forever, and we still wouldn’t be able to list all the amazing things to experience as a solo traveler in London. This sprawling city offers up amazement no matter where you go, and it’s one of the best places for a solo adventure—no matter what you like to seek out when you travel. Read on to find out why solo travel to London is always a good idea, and check out some of our staffers and travelers’s favorite things to do in London on a solo trip.

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Solo Female Travel , Europe , Travel Destinations , Travel Inspiration , Travel Tips

Solo female travel in london: everything you need to know.

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Undoubtedly, London is one of the greatest international cities in the world. Which, also means that London is the perfect option for your next solo trip.

On a personal note, I’m smitten with London, especially since I have a Master’s degree in Literature. I mean, the British Library? The Globe? What’s not  to love?

Solo female travel in London might’ve been an expensive treat, but for me, this adventure was well worth the cost. Wandering this city on my own terms, with very few obligations to other people, was divine. Divine.

You don’t need to be a literature lover to enjoy London either. As a destination, London has something for everyone. Truly.

Furthermore, London is a very accessible destination for solo travelers, especially North American travelers, who want to travel internationally for the first time. Despite its size, London thrives on tourism and knows how to accommodate everyone, even in the peak summer season. It’s the perfect place for planning a solo trip to Europe.

Since London has a special place in my heart, I wanted to share all the tips that I learned on my own solo adventures here. For many independent travelers, London is a major bucket list destination that deserves a lot of time and attention, as well as planning. I want to help you. 

Table of Contents

Should You Travel Alone to London?

Argh, as much as I want to say “yes, absolutely, book your airline ticket as soon as you close this post,” I need reel myself in and be realistic. Instead my answer about whether you should travel alone in London is a polite yes, but with caveats. Every solo traveler is different. 

Obviously, if you prefer nature vacations rather than large cities, you might be better off planning a different trip to the United Kingdom.

For example, solo travel in Scotland would absolutely fulfill your needs. England’s northern regions, such as The Lake District, are also delightful. You may even want to spend more time in Liverpool, if you want a mixture of city and nature, due to Liverpool’s easy accessibility to North Wales. 

Furthermore, solo travelers on a budget will want to carefully crunch the numbers for a London vacation. I’m not kidding. As a US citizen, the exchange rate never works in my favor, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it was the same for you. London is expensive. There’s no getting around it. Seriously, my credit card will take awhile to recover from this city, haha. 

However, if you’re a person who loves cities and isn’t turned off the London’s prices or the exchange rates, then this city is the perfect solo trip for you.

You’ll fall in love with all the museum, food, and tour options, and can splash out on more expensive affairs, such as afternoon tea and a late night show. London is a gift that keeps on giving (and if you need more inspiration, I have a great 4 Days in London Itinerary that you should check out). 

New Solo Travelers

But what if this is your very first solo trip overseas? Is London a good option for you? Absolutely!

New solo travelers will greatly appreciate London’s many attractions. Like I said, this city knows how to take care of its tourists. Hotels and hostels will provide an endless amount of map and tour options, which will help fill your days with fantastic activities.

New solo travelers will also love the iconic London experience, such as exploring the Tower of London, sipping Earl Grey at afternoon tea, and cruising on the Thames. 

Honestly, I’ll never forget my first views of Big Ben. London was the trip that “started it all” for me. Not to mention, it’s amazing to see in-person famous architecture that you’ve only ever seen on television or the internet. 

Experienced Solo Travelers

On the flip side, experienced solo travelers will also love London.

As a person who’s traveled extensively in Europe, London was refreshing, because I didn’t have to worry about language barriers. Now, obviously, I don’t hold language barriers against anyone (that would be a bad mindset for a traveler), but everyone speaking English took a bit of pressure off me, which was nice. Even experienced solo travelers need a “break.”

While experienced solo travelers might not be impressed with tourist areas, such as around the London Eye or Leicester Square, London’s abundant neighborhoods have plenty of options away from the hordes of visitors. I spent a lot of my time popping in and out of bookshops, and taking pictures in the prettiest mews around London. 

So, if you have a few solo trips under your belt, don’t be turned off just because London is popular. 

9 Reasons to Travel Alone to London

Still not sure if you wanna go to London alone? Here are some of the best reasons why solo travel to London is amazing. Sure, there are way more than nine, but these ideas will set the wheels in motion.

As always, you’ll want to continue to do your own research about London. These tips are mostly to inspire you to move beyond the anxiety of traveling to London alone and just booking the trip. You know I’m ALL about just booking the trip.

Let’s go! 

Accessible and Easy Public Transportation 

First and foremost, London has a fantastic public transportation system. I’m jealous of their public transportation system even with the strikes and delays. You don’t need a car in London.

Actually, I would avoid having a car in London full stop. Parking is a nightmare, and traffic is jaw-droppingly insane. Furthermore, if you are a visitor from North America or mainland Europe, London is not where you want to learn to drive on the left side of the road. 

For example, if you’re renting a car as part of a larger England roadtrip, then drop your rental at the appropriate airport, and use public transportation for the rest of your time in London. 

The most well known public transit in London is The Tube. This metro system goes all over London and into the suburbs. Trains frequently run. I never had to wait more than ten minutes for a ride. Each station has huge maps, so you’ll always be able to find directions without too much trouble. 

Easy Connections Around the United Kingdom

London is wonderful, but what if you’re doing a solo trip around England? Is London a good place to start your itinerary? Yes, for sure! 

If you want to visit other cities in the UK, London is a great place to start your adventure, because there are so many connections that are frequent, fast, and direct. For instance, I was able to do a couple days in Liverpool since the train ride was direct and only took two and a half hours. 

And if you want to go to Scotland? The Caledonian Sleeper runs services to Scotland’s major cities, including Glasgow and Edinburgh. You can also fly to Scotland,  of course, but there is something … I don’t know, romantic about taking a night train. 

Just make sure to book your train tickets in advance for the best prices. You’ll pay a premium rate waiting until the night before, or the train might even sell out entirely. 

English is (Obviously) Spoken Here

Obviously, this tip applies to native English speakers. I completely understand that English being spoken doesn’t make London an “easier” destination for every single solo traveler in the world. That would be really arrogant of me.

However, if you speak English at home and want a solo trip where you don’t need to worry about language barriers (especially if you’re new to traveling alone), then London is a wonderful option for you. 

I always suggest London as a great first solo trip to Europe to other English speakers. London is a great city to “get your feet wet” before heading to other European cities, such as Madrid or Paris, where English is still spoken, but not at the same level.

Few (If Any) Safety Concerns

I’ll talk about safety later on in this guide (it’s important for solo female travel in London), but one of the things that I loved about London was that safety wasn’t as much of an issue as other cities I’ve visited in the past.

I understand that everyone has different perceptions of safety, so I’m only speaking from my personal experience as a solo female traveler in London.

First of all, I didn’t notice as many petty scams as I did in Paris, Barcelona, and Rome. No one came up to me with a ridiculous friendship bracelet or fake petition. Still, it’s always good practice to keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in packed areas like a crowded Tube station. You don’t want to make it easier for pickpockets if they are present in the crowd.

Ultimately, I felt comfortable wandering around London at night. I think because London is a massive city, people are always out and about, and I personally feel more relaxed in a crowd than on an empty street. London has a lot of things to do alone at night and it would be a shame to miss them.

Londoners “Mind Their Business”

I like that Londoners mind their own business. While isolating to some people, I personally like not standing out in a crowd as a solo traveler. London’s an introvert’s dream come true. You can hang out in book stores, unwind in a pub, explore a museum, and go to a jazz show without a single person pestering you to have a conversation. 

Of course, if you’re a solo traveler looking to make new friends, you might want to join group tours, stay in hostels, or research local meetups to make those meaningful connections. 

Still, London is a great city for solo travelers who don’t want to justify their choices. Londoners are very used to people doing things on their own, and won’t judge you for exploring by your own damn self.

Perfect for a Longer Trip

In London, you don’t need to constantly switch locations if you don’t want to. Sure, seeing several different cities is fun for some people, but it’s also nice to stay in one place to fully enjoy the vibe. Slow travel is popular for a reason.

London is big. Actually, that’s an understatement. One day I clocked close to 40,000 steps, because I had so much that I wanted to see and do. 

Each area of London is very different. You could see the Street Art on Brick Lane and take a Jack the Ripper Tour one day in East London, and then go vintage shopping in Notting Hill in West London the next day, and feel as if you’re visiting two completely different cities.

I suggest staying in London for at least four days before attempting any day trips. 

Plenty of Walking Tours

As a solo traveler, I love going on walking tours. Sure, wandering around a new city and snapping photos is wonderful, but at the same time, I want some richer context and education on the buildings, streets, and people surrounding me. Walking tours open my mind and heart. 

In London, walking tours are everywhere and cover a variety of subjects. If you have a special interest, London probably has a walking tour about that interest, haha. 

Walking Tour Recommendations

• Historical Pub Walking Tour:  Not a fan of going to pubs alone? Want some drinking buddies and cool historic locations at the same time? Then try out this small group historic pub walking tour in London and enjoy your pints. 
• Jack the Ripper Tour:  Honestly, some of these tours are super problematic and exploitative of the women who were brutally killed. I’m also not a fan of “glorifying” serial killers, even from the Victorian Era. However, a few tours “do it right,” including the Jack the Ripper – What About the Women? tour. 
• London Free Tour:  Free walking tours are very popular with backpackers (and other travelers, of course). These tours are a fantastic way to acclimate yourself with a new city, while making new friends and learning some cool history. Sandemans has a great free walking tour that takes you by the most famous landmarks. Just make sure to tip.
• London Walking Food Tour: London has a thriving culinary scene, but eating alone is daunting for some travelers. This acclaimed food tour will have you sampling the best of British cuisine in the comfort of a group.
• Original Harry Potter Locations Tour:  Harry Potter fans will love this tour, especially fans of the movies. The highly rated Harry Potter locations tour will take you to Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square to see the filming sites. Very fun for everyone, including solo travelers.  

Pub Culture

London’s pub culture is great for solo travelers. I loved showing up to a pub for a casual lunch and not standing out as an awkward single traveler, haha. 

For travelers who want to feel more at home, explore your neighborhood and pick a local pub to visit once you’re finished sightseeing for the day. It’s not too hard to strike up a conversation with a bartender or other people in the pub. I find that Londoners are quite friendly once they’ve had a pint or two in them! 

As a side note, exercise caution with the amount of alcohol you drink. England’s “round culture” makes it easy to drink waaaay more than your bargained for! 

Tons of Free Museums 

Last but not least, London has a lot of high quality free museums for solo travelers who want to save a bit of money. You could create a legitimate itinerary strictly around the free museums. There are  a lot  of them.

For instance, on my solo trip to London, I visited both The Victoria and Albert Museum, and The Tate Modern, which was both free to the public (unless you want to go to a special exhibit). It’s easy to spend hours in each museum. Hours. 

Free museums exist for almost every interest. So pick and choose wisely, and remember it’s okay not to see every single museum in London! You’ll just have a wonderful excuse to visit again.

Check out Visit London’s comprehensive Free Museum Guide for more information on the best free museums for you. 

Practical Advice for Solo Female Travel in London

Last but not least, I wanted to share some practical tips for traveling alone to London. These tips are meant to help with safety concerns, packing, hotels, etc. As always, you’ll wanna to do your own research in addition to the information that I provide in this guide. 

Safety Tips for London

Solo female travel in London is linked with safety. No worries, though. Over all, London is a pretty safe city for its size. I’ve already shared a ton of London solo travel safety tips on this blog, and ultimately, if you use a bit of common sense, you shouldn’t have any issues traveling alone in London. 

Normal safety precautions apply. Use a taxi or rideshare late at night if you feel uncomfortable. Don’t feel like you’re obligated to talk to any strangers (seriously, if someone won’t leave you alone, you don’t need to be polite). Book accommodation in neighborhoods where you feel relaxed and welcome. 

I will say that I didn’t experience too much harassment in London. Regardless, it always pays to be mindful, especially as a solo traveler.

How to Get Around London

You will use public transportation to get around London. Renting a car is a disaster waiting to happen, and cabs are prohibitively expensive if you use them all the time. Get used to metros and buses. Don’t fret, though. 

The Tube is easy to navigate, and like I mentioned in this post, there are plenty of maps and signs in the major Tube stations. Public transit police are also very visible and helpful if you truly are baffled about what to do. 

If you want to learn your way around London and learn about the major sites, then another idea is to book a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus for your solo trip here. These buses stop at London’s major sites, such as Covent Garden and The British Museum, where you can hop off the bus to explore and return at your leisure. 

What to Pack as a Solo Female Traveler in London

London’s packing list is very similar to packing for other large cities, with a few exceptions. Sure, you can buy what you need in London, but it’s gonna cost way more money (more likely than not).

I personally think these items are the essentials that you’ll need for a solo trip to London. 

Solo Travel London Essentials

• Day Pack or Backpack:  Because of all the walking, I loved having a small and stylish backpack in London. London’s a very safe city, but if you’re nervous, check out this cute and compact Pacsafe bag that has anti-theft protection .
• High Quality Sneakers:  No one wears fancy heels or sandals in London. While people dress up, they all invest in  high quality sneakers , because walking 20,000 steps or more in London is the norm. 
• Lightweight Jacket: London’s weather is unpredictable. Wind and rain can happen without warning. So it’s always a good idea to bring an all-weather jacket with you on your trip.
• London Guidebook:  I always enjoy having a physical guidebook to refer to on my trip. Plus, they’re great mementos. Check out Lonely Planet’s London Guide , which you can buy physically or digitally. 
• Spare Phone Charger:  You’ll take loads of pictures and videos in London, and want to keep your phone fully charged. So have a portable charger as you explore this amazing city,
• Travel Insurance:  A London trip costs a lot. I know I sound like a broken record but you need to protect yourself. Don’t skimp on purchasing travel insurance. Sure, the United Kingdom has universal healthcare (aka the NHS), but these services are only for residents. I personally suggest using World Nomads for your travels to London. I’ve used World Nomads several times in the past, and think that their policies are both affordable and comprehensive. 
• Travel Umbrella:  When it rains in London, it  rains , so you need to check the weather forecast and stay prepared. Use a travel umbrella when the wet weather strikes. 
• UK Power Adapter:  In the UK, the power outlets are different from North America and mainland Europe. You will need a special UK Power Adapte r to charge your devices. While some hotels have USB outlets, this is far from universal. 

Where to Stay in London

When planning solo female travel in London, choosing the right place to stay is essential, and you are spoiled for choice. Like, gosh, London has so many amazing options for accommodation.

I will speak to a few great choices, but keep in mind that you might want to research neighborhoods in advance and see what areas best fit “your vibe.”

Accommodation Ideas

• Andaz London Liverpool Street:   Andaz is a trendy and fun hotel chain that appeals to younger travelers. This Andaz is in the perfect spot for seeing East London’s street and is well connected to Liverpool Street Station. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• The Rockwell:   This adorable hotel isn’t far from Earls Court Station, which makes it very easy to go to Heathrow Airport, as well as everywhere else in London. They also have a fantastic breakfast available, and the single rooms are super comfortable. Loved my stay here. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• Wombats City Hostel London:   This trendy hostel has a lot of shared spaces, including a cool bar and lounge area, that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers. Save money in a dorm or even book your own private room. Perfect for solo travelers who want to socialize. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .

I hope you liked this post all about solo female travel in London. As always, feel free to explore my blog for more information about solo travel in England and beyond! Enjoy London. It’s an incredible place.

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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London Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to London , England? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital of England and its largest city, with a population of over 9.5 million .
• With a history stretching back over 2,000 years , London is widely considered to be the de facto capital of the Western world (and one of the global financial powerhouses).
• The first city to have hosted the modern Olympics three times: in 1908, 1948 and 2012.
• Contains 4 world heritage sites: The Tower of London, Kew Gardens, Westminster Abbey, and the historic settlement of Greenwich.
• One in every three of the population is foreign-born . The city is one of the world’s top destinations for people wanting to study, work or learn the English language.
• Has the oldest underground railway network in the world.
• Nicknames: The Smoke / Big Smoke, The Great Wen, The Swinging City, Cockaigne.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  British Pound  (GBP).
• Spoken languages: primarily  English . London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and you may overhear a dozen different languages spoken.
• Best time to visit: from May to September . Note: weather in London can be unpredictable and gloomy. Pack a raincoat just in case.

Arriving via airport: National Express provides easy bus transfers between the city’s main stations and the 6 airports that service London. Directions from the major airports:

• Heathrow Airport (LHR) is accessible by Express Rail from London Paddington with a one-way fare of £21 while a taxi will charge £45-60. The cheapest way to get downtown is by London Underground (Piccadilly line) with an Oyster card (Zone 1-6 Travelcard valid).
• London Gatwick (LGW) is connected by rail lines operated by Gatwick Express for £18.90, Southern Railway for £13.50 and First Capital Connect for £10. All these tickets cost considerably less when purchased in advance. Easy Bus delivers to Earl’s Court for £2
• From London Stansted (STN) travel into the city is serviced by Stansted Express with rail journey time of 60 minutes and single fare at £21.50 while the Terravision coach to Victoria costs £9. Taxis charge up to £70.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in London: Astor Hyde Park . Great location (for the price, it doesn’t get more central than this), clean dorms and facilities, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. Perfect for exploring the city – not a party hostel.
• Kensington is the most popular district due to great value for money and connects to budget-friendly Earl’s Court and Gloucester Road Underground.
• Another favorite is Victoria for a wide range of accommodation and optimal location near the transportation hubs and main sightseeing activities.
• While Knightsbridge is the place to be for exclusive shopping and restaurants, the best buzz is to be seen at West End , the centrally located area closest to the theatre district.
• If you’re budget minded, Central-Baker Street  and  Marylebone  are good areas to stay (to save money on accommodation, look for areas accessible by metro/tube).

GETTING AROUND

• The best way to save both money and time while commuting around London is to purchase an Oyster Card , the electronic ticket used on all major transport options, from underground rail to bus, trams, river boat services and trains. Fares are almost half the price compared to paper tickets; the card can be topped up online or at any of the 3,900 Oyster Ticket Shops.
• The London Underground , mostly referred to as the Tube, is the world’s oldest underground network. It runs 11 lines distinguished by name and color and deliver to every corner of the city. Trains run from 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM and charge on a zonal fare system starting at £4.50 (or £2 for Oyster Card). For exact schedules, please see the timetable .
• The iconic red double-decker buses serve 700 routes throughout London and bear the number of their line and direction. Night service ensures no passenger is left stranded.
• Black cabs can be hailed from the street and are required by law to take passengers to any area within Greater London. Charges are distance and time dependent. Fares are metered, with a minimum charge of  £2.40 . Many residents prefer to use Uber .
• London River Services run privately owned commuter boats that make travel highly scenic from the waters of the Thames. Oyster cards are accepted.

LONDON NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  18 , and last call is depends on the venue. While bars and pubs typically stop serving alcohol around 12:30 AM, most clubs go on till 3 AM.
• London has an impressive selection of bars and nightclubs for all tastes.
• Great pubs/bars to start your night: The Lyric (Soho), The King’s Head (Earl’s Court), The Craft Beer Co. (multiple locations), BrewDog (multiple locations).
• Head to Shoreditch for dance clubs playing drum and bass, house and trance music – the world’s top DJs call the area their home.
• Mayfair (and Knightsbridge) is for the exclusive crowd.
• Camden  has a good selection of bars and clubs.
• Leicester Square is the pub crawl destination (also known as tourist central!)
• Upper Street and Clapham Junction should be on the radar for those looking to eat like the locals.
• Soho is a good all-around bet, with a wide selection of restaurants, clubs and jazz bars.
• Hip scene: head to Dalston or   Shoreditch   to party with the young and trendy crowd.
• Tip: London is an expensive place to drink – expect to pay £4 for a pint of beer/ale. Check the Bloomsbury area for cheaper drinks – look for bars and pubs near University College London (UCL).
• For event listings, visit Londonears (gigs) and Resident Advisor (night club events).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Houses of Parliament and the Big Ben . The Palace of Westminster, built by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century, is a must-see. The Big Ben is the name given to the bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace, and is an internationally-recognized symbol of London.
• The Tower of London . History buffs should check out the Crown Jewels exhibition, which includes the Imperial State Crown and the Sovereign’s Scepter with Cross.
• The Hampton Court Palace is a lovely palace, and a must-see for visitors to the city. Several monarchs have adapted the palace to their own tastes over the years.
• The London Eye is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe (135 meters) and offers the most impressive views of the city. On clear days, visibility is up to 40 km in all directions!
• The British Museum : truly an Aladdin’s cave of treasures collected by the British Empire from all over the world. Even if you are not a history buff, the museum is worth a visit.
• Other museums worth a visit: the  Tate Modern , Victoria & Albert Museum , the Churchill War Rooms , National Gallery , and Museum of Natural History .

INTERESTING WALKS

• The stroll from Paddington Station to Trafalgar Square cuts through the city’s most cultural districts, including Kensington Gardens and St. James’ Park for a walk among London’s finest and most romantic green spaces.
• Notting Hill is home to the world famous Portobello Market, known for antique dealers, vintage fashion and knick knacks unlike any you’ve ever seen. Spitalfields Market is where to find up-and-coming designers, trendy pieces and vintage memorabilia.
• From Little Venice walk along the canal and reach Regent’s Park for a casual, scenic route outside the city mayhem.
• Starting from Blackheath Station, walk along Goffers Road to Greenwich Park and look upon London from the zero-degree meridian.
• Hackney is the city’s leafiest boroughs, with over 60 parks for picnics, quiet reads or lunch breaks.
• The Southbank is ideal for a relaxing stroll. Cross along Westminster Bridge to London Bridge, taking in lovely views of the River Thames as you do so. As you walk along the River, check out the Shakespeare Globe Theatre.
• Take a walk around one of London’s Royal parks. If you have trouble choosing one, try the St. James Park . Other great parks include: Hyde Park, Green Park, and Kensington Gardens.
• Treat yourself to a guided walking tour by London Walks – it’s well worth it.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Want to know the best way to get somewhere using public transport? Use Citymapper .
• The best festivals are held the months of June to August – plan ahead if visiting during these months, as the best budget accommodations in London quickly sell out at this time.
• Visit  Buckingham Palace at the time of the changing of the guard to see an amazing procession for free.
• London is known for its subcultures. Denmark Street is a great visit if you’re into music, while  Carnaby Street is a mecca for fashionistas.
• There are too many great restaurants to try in a lifetime here. Some suggestions for solo travelers: Wingmans (Soho), Bike Shed Moto Co. (Shoreditch), Wahaca (Mexican – multiple locations), Burger & Lobster (multiple locations), Morito (tapas) or Shawarma Bar (both of these are in Exmouth Market), KIN (Leather Lane – Viet), Eat Tokyo (multiple locations), Monohon Ramen, Flat Iron (steak), Bancone (Italian).
• Where to find  good cheap eats : head to the nearest Roti King , Pizza Union , Wagamama or Nando’s (practically a London institution now). Craving deep dish pizza? Head to Japes .
• Dangerous areas : avoid the areas of Hackney, Tottenham, and Peckham at night. London is generally safe for tourists, but beware of scam artists the same way you would in any other busy city.

The Best London Guide Books:

• Fodor’s London (Full-color Travel Guide)

Recommended trip duration: 4-5 days

• Manchester, England
• Liverpool, England
• Newcastle, England
• Bristol, England
• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Glasgow, Scotland
• Cardiff, Wales
• Paris, France
• Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in England

Planning a Trip to England

Think of England and you may conjure up images of London, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace but the country has so much more to offer than just the capital. Whether you choose to head north, south, east or west, you’ll find a new city within hours.

England is easy to navigate for a solo and you’ll find plenty to do here. If you are planning a solo trip to England, below are the best places to visit in England, where to stay and how to get around. 

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for England .

N.b. By booking through this page you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

Working Holiday in The UK

England tours, accommodation in england, itinerary for england, travelling around england, plan a trip to england.

England is a really easy destination for solo females and the fact that it is an English speaking country makes it an attractive destination for visitors from Australia, the States, and many European countries.

There are good transport systems making it easy to get around the country regardless of which region you want to explore. England is divided into counties of which many have their own regional accents. Although Londoners do have a reputation for being a bit standoffish, if you do need any help, most people will stop and help you if you ask.

Venture outside of the main cities and you’ll be met by friendly locals, and warm open fires in traditional English pubs, a quintessential part of the British experience.

You’ll see other women solo in the cities and if you’re travelling solo in London, you’ll have no trouble meeting other travellers in hostels or on tours. But if you’re finding it hard to meet others, a Walkabout bar or Irish bar never fails.

London regularly hosts events that are ideal for those solo evenings. If you haven’t travelled solo before, England is a good destination to visit especially if you’re nervous about travelling alone.

If you are thinking of a working holiday in the UK, Global Work & Travel helps you to organise internships in London and the rest of the UK. Whether you want to join a summer camp in the UK, au pair in the UK, au pair London or join one of their business internships in London or beyond, there are several to choose from.

Their placements are ideal for solos and include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure. * Save £100/$100/€100 with the code ‘GatG.’ * Check all rates and availability for internships in London and the UK

Tower Bridge in London

Places to Visit in England

London is the country’s cosmopolitan capital. It’s here that you can immerse yourself in Monarchy history, visit free museums to your heart’s content, and follow the footsteps of the city’s history.

There is so much to see and do in London, that I’ve written a whole guide to Solo Travel in London . But as a summary, the major sights include The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tate Museum and The Tate Modern.

You also shouldn't miss the British Museum and Buckingham Palace where you can watch the changing of the guard. Hyde Park is beautiful and a breath of fresh air from the city hustle and bustle.

Oxford Street is where to go for major shopping indulgence and attracts thousands of visitors to its shops every day. Bond Street, which connects to Oxford Street, has designer shops of the city. Harrods is iconic luxury London shopping, most of us can only browse but it is quite an experience. 

Each of London’s neighbourhoods has a unique ambience. Discover Shoreditch with its artsy, casual vibe. Mayfair is the posh end of the city with the most expensive and exclusive bars and restaurants.

High-end shopping is enjoyable in Chelsea. For live music and street art, head to Brixton. Theatre lovers should head to Soho to be close to the West End shows and trendy bars.

If you are on a budget, there are lots of things to do that are either free or are very cheap. London is home to some of the greatest museums in the world such The British Museum, The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and The Museum of London.

There is also a fantastic selection of galleries to enjoy such as The National Portrait Gallery, The Tate and of course The National Gallery. Museums and galleries are the best places to visit if you are a solo traveller as you can immerse yourself in the fantastic exhibitions without being worried about visiting on your own.

* Related Post: Free Things To Do in London (in 24 Hours)

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle 

Further out from the city centre is Windsor Castle, which is definitely worth a visit. It’s very accessible by train, about an hour outside London. Steeped in royal history dating back over 1,000 years, there is a museum and extensive grounds to see. This is where many of the royal weddings take place.

Oxford 

Easily reachable on a day trip from London is Oxford . Home to England’s oldest university, Oxford is perfect for those who love architecture with 1,500 listed buildings within the county of Oxfordshire. Known as the City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford inspired many writers included as J.R.R Tolkien, author of the Lord of the Rings.

This Southeastern city has stately homes and museums to explore and is a favourite for filmmakers. I stayed in Oxford for 3 days and really loved it. It's perfect for literary lovers. * Read: Literary Tour of England

Brighton Pier

Head south from London to explore some of the country’s coastline. Brighton is a vibrant city and home to Pride. The seaside city of Brighton is one of the most popular, and the abundance of clubs and bars draws those seeking nightlife to the coastal city.

As well as a beautiful beach, there is the well-known pier and traditional Royal Pavilion to look around. Meander around the lanes and window shop in vintage shops or get a good view of the city from the new observation tower. * Related Post: Solo Travel in Brighton

The sandy beach of Bournemouth

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a haven for holidaymakers looking for the traditional British seaside experience. The sandy beach is a popular place for sun worshippers to soak up rays or try your hand at water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding. There’s even a surf school in Boscombe if you want to try surfing.

The laid-back atmosphere of the place is ideal for a weekend getaway with something to suit all types of solos. There's the Oceanarium for sea life lovers, Victorian architecture for history buffs, and the Bournemouth International Centre for culture vultures. Wander around the shops, spend hours on Bournemouth Pier and admire art at Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum.

Take the boat to Brownsea Island, escape the crowds at Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, or just relax on Boscombe Beach. There’s also great nightlife here, and you’re not far away from Poole Harbour and Sandbanks, the largest natural harbour in the world.

A beach in Devon

Head southwest from the capital for some traditional English food. Devon is home to cream teas and nice beaches such as Woolacombe Beach and South Milton Sands where you can even catch a glimpse of seals and dolphins.

Known as the English Riviera, you can visit castles, fishing villages and art galleries. You have to try a Cream Tea here too. There is so much you can do in Devon that you could easily spend a week here. Click here for a day out in Devon

The Eden Project in Cornwall

Not far from Devon is  Cornwall , where you can experience a Cornish pasty and go surfing at the seaside town of Newquay. Cornwall is one of England’s most popular destinations so expect to see lots of families here especially if you go to the Toy Museum or Mosley Tramway.

If you’re a nature Girl about the Globe you’ll want to put this area on this travel wish list. You can transport yourself to somewhere hot and exotic at the famous Eden Project or lose yourself in the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Bodmin Jail.

If you spend time in Cornwall, you simply have to travel to Lands End, the most Southwesterly point in the UK and one of England’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.

People flocking to Newquay beach

Situated in Cornwall, Newquay is often named one of the best seaside towns in the UK. It’s also one of the easiest areas to meet others, due to the big surfing and backpacking community you’ll find plenty of people from around the world surfing on one of the beaches.

In the evenings, the town comes alive with several clubs offering a wide array of music. There are also plenty of restaurants and chilled out pubs.

A cruise ship docks in Southampton

Southampton

Coming from Hampshire, down the road from Southampton I may be slightly biased but if you like maritime history, England has plenty of it and Southampton is one of these places. Southampton is where the Titanic set sail and you can learn more about this famous ship at the SeaCity Museum. 

See vintage aircraft at the Solent Sky Museum, or go back to the times of the Tudors and see a penny-farthing bike at the Tudor House and Garden. West Quay is where it’s at, where modern bars and restaurants are designed around castle ruins.

The Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth

Just down the road is Portsmouth , an old maritime city and one of the biggest ports in the UK. Walk along the cobbled streets in Old Portsmouth, stand on the glass floor of the Tall Spinnaker Tower or get some retail therapy at Gunwharf Quays, a waterfront shopping outlet where you can watch the boats coming into the harbour.

Maritime GatGs should head to the Historic Dockyard to learn more about historical ships such as the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior, and HMS Victory; Lord Nelson’s flagship.

Osborne House in the Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight

If it’s island life that you’re after, you can hop across the Solent to the Isle of Wight .  Located just off the south coast of the UK, the Isle of Wight is just a 3-hour drive from London and can be reached from either Southampton or Portsmouth by car or passenger ferry.

The Isle of Wight is a destination for history enthusiasts, adventure lovers, sandy beach babes and nature admirers. Shanklin is one of the few seaside resorts on the island which has stood the test of time and is a contrast to Sandown, one of the most popular and recognised beaches.

If you love music, the Isle holds an annual IOW Festival featuring some of the biggest names in music. If you're not here for the festival there is still plenty to see on this island. I used to have annual holidays here as a child and loved it. 

You can get up close and personal with dinosaurs at Blackgang Chine, admire Queen Victoria's former residence at Osborne House, take the chairlift through the air at Needles, or get the adrenalin pumping with some zorbing and axe throwing in Freshwater. There’s plenty to see and do on this British Isle.

* Related Post: Solo Travel in the Isle of Wight

The face of Brunel, who designed the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

Bristol is known as the Capital of the South West. It is smaller than London but larger than nearby Bath. The city has a strong maritime history, art and plenty of live music and is a bustling city. 

With pop-up markets and galleries, you’ll always find something to do, especially if you visit in May when the festival season begins with music and food events. Spend time on the vibrant harbourside, and at night chill on one of the boats with a cider, or go clubbing on one!

Just a fifteen-minute bus journey away, you can be staring out over the Avon Gorge at the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of Brunel’s masterpieces. There really is something for every type of traveller. Things to see here are the: Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain, Wills Memorial Building, Bristol Cathedral, and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. * Related Post: Day Trip To Bristol

The UNESCO city of Bath

Bath  

Bath is an easy day trip from London. You can also stop off at Stonehenge which is on the way to Bath and is often combined with a tour from London. Bath is a beautiful city and one that is rich in heritage and history.

Known for its Roman baths, and its limestone buildings, the city is easily one of the prettiest in England, hence why it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Although you can’t bathe in the old Roman ones, (it is now a museum) you can pamper yourself at the Thermal Bath Spa and take in the panoramic views from the rooftop pool. For a different view of the city, climb the 200-plus steps to the top of the Bath Abbey Tower for breathtaking views.

Or hike along the Bath Skyline Walk past meadows and woods for a more active, view of Bath, as you immerse yourself in its nature.

If you love museums, visit the Fashion Museum, Victoria Art Gallery, and the Holbourne Museum, or discover more about the life of Jane Austen, one of England’s most famous authors at The Jane Austen Centre.

Then there’s the Royal Crescent, a terrace of 30 Georgian houses, Royal Victoria Park with monuments to see, Pulteney Bridge, and the gorgeous Prior Park.

An old house in Ludlow

You may not have heard of Ludlow but this quintessentially British town near the border of Wales is the unofficial gastronomic capital of England. Each year in September they hold a food festival, but visit at any time of the year to enjoy the thriving restaurant scene featuring local producers.

Stop in a cheese shop, browse around a food market, or just visit in May for the beer festival instead.

A quaint village in the Cotsworlds

Is there anywhere more quaint than the Cotswolds with its cobbled streets, thatched cottages and cute tea rooms which make this area quintessentially English. Visit Blenheim Palace – the birthplace of Winston Churchill, or the spa town of Cheltenham for a truly authentic British experience.

Situated on the River Cam, everyone has heard of Cambridge . Quintessentially English, this university city is one for the history and culture Girl about the Globe. Visit the buildings of its famous university which has produced some of England’s finest writers.

Punt on the river or just take a picnic and watch others do it instead. Discover Greek and Egyptian art at the Fitzwilliam Museum, vintage aircraft at the Imperial War Museum, or see the Round Church; a stone church that dates back to the year 1130.

You can’t miss King’s College Chapel either with its stained glass and Gothic architecture. Apparently, it has the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling.

If you’re looking to meet others, spend an evening at Cambridgeshire Wine School sampling some wine and mingling with your favourite tipple. Then immerse yourself amongst plants and nature at the Botanic Garden, or take a walk along The Backs for picturesque views of the River Cam and the city’s well-known university buildings.

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Stratford-Upon-Avon is home to one of the most famous playwrights and poets, William Shakespeare. The town itself is steeped in history, its medieval streets retain much of the period charm and character that its name is now synonymous with. Stratford is on the British canal network, giving it a picture-postcard look.

From immaculate Tudor frontage to thatched cottages, the place really looks like you’ve stepped into a history book. Things to see and do: Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre, Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford Butterfly Farm, and visit the Stratford Armouries.

Chrome Hill in the Peak District

The Peak District

The Peak District is a stunning destination. From historic houses and castles to rugged valleys, you will come back feeling rested and rejuvenated. If you love hiking, The Pennies is one of the country’s best and longest walks, or trek the Leek to Peak trail in Dovedale instead.

The Pennine Way is the highest point in England and should definitely be on your itinerary. Cycle enthusiasts will love the Manifold Trail along the Manifold Valley and the steam railway. For the adventurous solo, there are plenty of activities to get your adrenalin rush. Head to Chesterfield to go caving or rock climbing.

Make your trip even more memorable with a stay in one of the Peak cottages. Things to see and do: Step back in time in Belper, go paragliding in Chesterfield, or just relax in the calmness of the Carsington Waters.

Chester Cathedral

Chester 

Chester is the Capital of Cheshire. Being on the border of Wales and the massive harbour made Chester an important strategic outpost in Roman Britain, evidence of which can still be seen today. The main attractions can easily be discovered on foot and the city is an enjoyable place to walk around.

The main city is encircled by a two-mile ring of medieval and Roman walls. Inside these walls is a wealth of Tudor and Victorian buildings. Plus the unique “Rows” which are raised galleried shopping arcades. The walls can be accessed at several points and offer a lovely way to view the city.

You can walk past all the towers, turrets and gates, all of which have some history or story to tell. The Roman Gardens are well worth a good exploration and not far from here you come across the Roman Amphitheatre. Or you can discover the city’s art collection and history at The Grosvenor Museum. * Read more: Things To Do in Chester

Liverpool is the perfect city for those interested in culture, history, sightseeing, shopping and nightlife. If you are a Beatles fan then the Albert Dock should be on the top of your bucket list. The Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool is so good that UNESCO classed it as one of its World Heritage sites and is home to the main exhibition of the Beatles Story.

Learn about Earth’s history at the World Museum. Not only can you see casts of dinosaur bones here but they have an Egyptian mummies collection too. If you love shopping get yourself down to Liverpool ONE.

This large complex has all the high street shops and designer names that you need in one area, including bars and restaurants. The Liverpool Cathedral is a stunning place to visit. Not only is it the biggest Cathedral in Britain but it is also the 5th largest in Europe. * Related Post: Solo Travel in Liverpool  

Known for its nightlife and famous football clubs, Manchester isn’t just somewhere to shop and party. The nearby Pennine mountains are also a place to visit in England for nature, culture, and museums. But, if it is nightlife that you’re after, the Northern Quarter has plenty of bars to keep you entertained.

Discover the Manchester Museum with more than four million artefacts from fossils to mummies. There are even real reptiles to look at.

For the art lover, the Manchester Craft and Design Centre is the place to be. Find sculptures, prints and everything arty within this old Victorian fish market.

If you’re a football fan, take your football boots down to the National Football Museum where you can learn more about England’s most popular sport and can practise your skills too! Or take a stadium tour of Old Trafford.

If you prefer architecture, the Manchester Cathedral is one of the city’s oldest buildings. Learn more about its history and time your visit for when a performance is on. The city is also home to Victoria Baths which are open for tours, performances and festivals.

For the evenings, head to ‘HOME,’ the city’s centre of culture. Indulge in a theatre performance or just enjoy a cocktail or two. For a drink with a view, you may prefer an evening at Cloud 23, on the 23rd floor of the Hilton Hotel. Manchester has something for all types of solos.

Blackpool Tower

Blackpool has been named the top seaside town in the UK for many years, and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s got everything you need for traditional British seaside fun. As well as a beautiful sandy beach where you can catch some rays, you can also visit the famous Blackpool tower which stands pride of place.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is also a draw to the area with its abundance of thrilling rides. Adrenaline junkies will love trying out all the fantastic rides including the famous Big One. In the evening, you can find many shows and illuminations, which is one of the main reasons for Blackpool tourism being so popular.

Birmingham, a vibrant city in the heart of England, offers a diverse range of activities. You can explore the iconic Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing art, history, and culture. Wander through the historic Jewellery Quarter, known for its unique boutiques and craftsmanship.

Indulge in retail therapy at the Bullring, a shopping destination with a mix of high-end and independent stores. Or immerse yourself in the city's industrial past at the Thinktank Science Museum. Don't miss a canal-side stroll in Brindleyplace where you can dine at one of the restaurants or enjoy a cultural evening at the Symphony Hall. There's also the Botanical Gardens to explore. * Read: Is Birmingham Worth Visiting?

Derwent Water in the Lake District

The Lake District

If you like the great outdoors, then the Lake District is a fantastic place to visit and a walker’s paradise. The beautiful scenery and rich countryside are dotted with hidden streams, waterfalls, mountains and of course – lakes. Great for hiking, climbing and mountain biking there’s plenty to do here if you’re an active solo, or alternatively, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.

It’s also a place to visit for Star Wars fans, with the lake featuring as a backdrop to several scenes in Force Awakens. Areas such as Derwentwater and Catbells Lakeland Walk are two of the best places to hike in the region.

Things to see and do: Take a cruise on Windermere Lake, visit the Lakes Aquarium, Get crafty at the Blackwell Arts & Crafts House, or take a tour of Beatrix Potter country.  * Related Post: Solo Travel in The Lake District

Over the course of the last two decades, Newcastle has invested hundreds of millions into its culture and is now considered one of England’s top cultural cities. The Quayside is one of the most popular spots in Newcastle for both tourists and locals, and it is considered one of the top ten attractions in Newcastle.

One of the most unique places to see in all of Newcastle is Victoria Tunnel, which runs underneath the city all the way from the Town Moor to the Tyne. This tunnel was constructed way back in 1842 in order to transport coal to riverside jetties from Leazes Main Colliery. It has now been converted into a shelter to protect citizens during the war. 

Things to see and do: Escape in nature at Jesmond Dene Park, walk along the Quayside, or step inside the Victoria Tunnel. Newcastle will definitely surprise you. 

Guernsey in the Channel Islands

England's Islands

Then there are the islands, some of which are shared with Wales and Scotland; the Shetland Islands, the Orkney Islands, the Isle of Man, and the Isles of Scilly. Further south in the British Channel are a group of islands that form the UK Channel Islands. But with so much to see and do in Jersey and Guernsey, this group of islands deserve a guide all to their own. * Read Solo Travel in the Channel Islands

Whether you choose to hike along the Jurassic Coast, enjoy fresh oysters in the fishing village of Whitstable, or just relax on the beach at West Wittering, you can find it in England.

Thinking of going to the UK? Global Work & Travel helps you to organise working abroad placements in the UK and around the world. Choose from a working holiday or au pairing . Their placements include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure.

Alnwick Castle

Explore offers every kind of trip for solos for all ages, especially if you’re 40 plus. You can take a short break, a trip that specialises in food and drink and you also have the option of private or self-guided tours too.  

They have several trips to England whether you are looking to walk the South Downs or explore the Northumberland coast and castles for 6 days. Cycle coast to coast or walk the Lake District or Pembrokeshire coast in a week. Group sizes are between 12 to 18 and you share a room with another member of the group or can upgrade to a single room. Prices exclude flights. * Check rates and availability for Explore tours

England Day Tours  

Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including England. Choose from a Harry Potter guided walking tour in London, a university and city walking tour in Oxford, or entry to Stonehenge.

Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo whether you choose to visit Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, Cambridge or York, and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for England day tours

England has all types of accommodation whether you’re searching for a friendly B&B, a guest house in the country, a budget hostel or any star hotel. Stay in one of the Peak cottages or rent your own apartment in one of England's many cities. There are also many campsites in England where you can stay in a caravan or mobile home or even take your own tent.

Plus there’s Airbnb which offers rental accommodation in England on a short-term basis and rooms with a local. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. If you're staying longer than short term, consider renting an apartment when you're here. 

If you’re unsure of where to stay in England, all of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. I've included the most popular destinations in England. For all other accommodations,  check rates and availability for all accommodation in England

Brighton   – Sea Spray

Seaspray is one of the theme hotels in Brighton. This luxury boutique hotel has 15 different themed rooms from Elvis to Venice. It is close to the attractions and the Pier and also offers an insider’s guide to Brighton once you have made a booking. A good breakfast is included in the room rate. * Check rates and availability: Sea Spray

Lake District – New Ing Lodge

This independent lodge is a welcoming bed and breakfast in the Lake District. The staff are warm and friendly and the rooms are equally as comfortable. The lodge is an old farmhouse and has a relaxed vibe with a shared lounge where you can meet others. If you are visiting in the winter months, they have heating in the rooms. They even provide a vegetarian or vegan breakfast. * Check rates and availability: New Ing Lodge

London – K West Hotel & Spa

Close to Westfield in Shepherd’s Bush, this vibrant hotel was formerly the BBC office and recording studios. There are 219 guest rooms here with a Rock ’n’ Roll influence as well as a spa complete with a sauna, steam room, foot bath and a Hydrotherapy pool. Plus there’s a restaurant on-site too. * C heck rates and availabiliy: K West Hotel & Spa

Liverpool – Tune Hotel Liverpool

All the major attractions are within walking distance and the hotel is just a short walk to Liverpool Central (the train station), which is ideal if you are arriving or departing by train. The rooms are clean and there is a 24-hour desk so you can check in late, and also store your luggage if you're not leaving until after check out.

There are restaurants nearby too. Choose from a twin or double room with or without a window (to keep the costs down). * C heck rates and availability: Tune Hotel Liverpool

Glastonbury

There are so many different itineraries that you can do in England, depending on what your interest is. You could create your own fictional tour seeing all of the places that inspire some of England’s most famous writers, or follow the Jurassic Coastline if you like to hike in nature.

One place that should definitely be on your solo itinerary is London, and even three nights here just scrapes the surface of the capital. Below is our recommended itinerary for a two-week trip to England.

For a first-time itinerary, I would visit London and spend five or six days here. During that time, you could visit some popular attractions and spend some time just getting to know the city. My favourite ‘must-dos’ are a walk along the Southbank to Tower Bridge, afternoon tea in a fancy hotel or restaurant, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

For something a bit different you could spend an afternoon or evening in off-beat Camden, visit a food market like Broadway or Borough, pub-hop in Shoreditch or take a boat to Greenwich to visit several royal museums and stand on the Prime Meridian.

After that, take a train to Bath and spend a couple of days in this beautiful Georgian town visiting the Roman Baths, the Abbey, and perhaps getting a spa treatment or sampling some local Somerset cider. 

From Bath, rent a car and set out for Cornwall. Stop in the artist colony of St. Ives for cliff-backed surf beaches and great seafood. Work your way around the coast before returning to Bath, perhaps via hippy Glastonbury or the ornate cathedral in Wells. Then head back to London for onward travel.

It is very easy to get around England. In the capital, London’s public transport network includes the Tube (the metro), trains, buses and the DLR. You can just use your debit card. A great way to see lots of famous landmarks without spending a fortune is to buy The London Pass .

The pass has a choice of 1, 2, 3, 6, or 10 consecutive days and includes skip-the-line entry too. Most attractions are within the city centre and are easily accessible by Tube and on foot.

For the rest of the country, National Express runs frequent services to hundreds of cities and towns including airports, making it easy to get around. National Express coaches are comfortable with toilet facilities and you can travel up and down the country for low prices.

The train lines are privatised so costs can vary depending on where you are travelling to, but the network covers the whole country so you can travel from London to practically anywhere in England. The train is the fastest way to get around. If you are planning on using the train more than once, it may be worth looking into a BritRail Pass .

For a fixed price you can take unlimited journeys around a specific region or the whole country. To get the best train fare, it’s worth pre-booking your ticket in advance but check your route in case it has a limited special offer.

Hiring a car is also easy. You just need a driving licence with an international driving permit. Most cars now come with a GPS. The road infrastructure in England is good and driving is on the left. Tourist attractions are well-signposted and distances are marked in miles not kilometres.

For parking, you usually need coins for parking meters although some now take cards. You can hire a car straight from the airport to collect as you arrive or from a city instead. * Check prices and availability for car hire

If you prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring a motorhome and driving yourself around the UK. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation as well as cooking gear and a fridge/freezer to prepare your meals. Spaceship Rentals offers a Voyager campervan from £50 per day. * Book a campervan with Spaceship Rentals

Budget – £50+ a day

Capital – London

Population – 55.98 million

Language spoken – English

Local Currency – Pound Sterling  

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Vaccinations Required  

Did you know? Winchester was the first capital of England

Lingo – They speak English!

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The Best Time to Go – June to August

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UNESCO Sites in England  

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Local Cost Guide

England’s Sacred Sites 

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Explore > Type of vacation > City > How to Travel Solo in London

How to Travel Solo in London

The essential guide for traveling solo in your favorite uk city.

London , England, is a fabulous city, offering so much to see, do, and eat. Perhaps the best part is that it’s so easy to get around, making it an ideal place to visit if you’re a solo traveler. After all, there is no need to rent a car or worry about language barriers.

Whether you’re looking to fill your days with museum visits or shopping excursions, you get to call the shots when you’re traveling to London alone. You can explore the city how you like and when you want.

When you book a flight to London , no matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, you can find it in this city. Follow our tips and tricks to make the most of your solo adventures in London Town.

Things to Know When Traveling to London

London is just across the pond from the U.S., but there’s an endless amount of cultural differences you’ll start to notice on your first visit. Whether you’re traveling to London for the first time or merely learning how to travel alone, keep the following things in mind for smooth sailing around the city.

• Currency: England and the surrounding UK countries use the Great British Pound sterling, which is historically stronger than the US dollar. Even when the UK were still members of the European Union, they retained their native currency instead of the widely accepted Euro. This is something that might be easy to forget for those taking a trip to London on their way throughout Europe.
• Transportation: The best way to get around London is to ride the London Underground or “The Tube”. It’s a network of trains that service nine zones throughout the city. If you’re traveling for several days, purchase an Oyster card to save on fares, and use it towards bus rides, tube routes, and overground trains. For more information on the impressive network of public transportation available in London, visit: Transport for London
• Universal adapters : Without a universal adapter, you won’t be able to charge your phone or plug in your curling iron in the UK 3-pin outlets.
• Language : Though people in the UK speak English, you will notice a few charming differences in both their accents and phrasing. For example, “rubbish” means trash, “lift” means elevator, and “cheers” means thank you.

London Solo Travel Tips

As in any city, you’ll want to take precautions to ensure you’re being safe. When making a solo trip to London, follow the following tips:

• Check in with your friends and family. Provide them with details around where you’re staying and what your plans are for the day.
• Ask your hotel concierge if the neighborhood is safe to walk alone at night. When in doubt, order a ride. London black taxis are some of the best in the world and are only marginally pricier than ride-sharing apps. We recommend using the Gett app so you can ride in those classic black taxis, but with the easy convenience of an app.
• Be mindful of your valuables. Use the safe at your hotel or hostel and keep copies of important documents, such as bank cards and your passport, with you at all times.
• Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t have to mean you have to go it alone. You can meet people quickly when you’re by yourself, especially if you get involved with guided group activities like bike routes, art exhibits, bus tours, or even small talk at the pub.  

Best Places to Go in London on Your Own

What can you do alone in London? Everything! There are so many attractions and activities to enjoy when you’re traveling on your own. And the best part of all is you don’t have to compromise—you can do whatever you want when you want.

• See the sites: The beauty of traveling alone is that you get to set the agenda for everything on your list. Check out some of the most famous sites, such as London Tower, Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and more.
• Do a little shopping: Whether you’re souvenir shopping for friends back home or looking for cutting-edge European fashion, London has it all. Spend a morning browsing the stalls at Covent Garden Market or trying the fresh produce at Borough Market. For the big-name shops, you’ll want to explore down Oxford Street, and for designer couture, you can’t miss Sloane Street. All these areas offer incredible shopping amid world-class architecture, with beautiful, historic buildings housing all the shops and restaurants.
• Take a tour: When it comes to solo travel in London, a tour is a great way to get to know the city. You’ll find all sorts of tours that are great for solo travelers, from Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tours to river cruises.
• Get tickets to a show : If you’re a drama lover, you’ll want to see a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre or any of the shows available in London’s West End. There are many incredible venues to choose from, including The Royal Opera House, Sadler’s Wells, Victoria Palace Theatre, and The Apollo.
• For riverside shopping, you’ll love staying at a hotel along The Strand.
• For high-end boutiques and restaurants, stay in South Kensington.
• For activities and theatre, stay in Soho.
• For shopping, art, and nightlife, stay in Covent Garden.
• To be next to Chelsea Football Stadium, stay in Fulham.
• For art galleries, stay near St. James’ Park and Piccadilly Circus.

London on a Budget

Though London is often considered an expensive city, you might be surprised at how many free attractions are available. Keep more money in your pocket when you check out the following activities.

• Visit the free museums and galleries : The British Museum, National Gallery, Museum of London, and the Natural History Museum are just a few of the many fantastic (and free!) exhibits throughout the city.
• Eat a big breakfast : Save money on food by starting your day with a traditional English breakfast. The massive meal includes eggs, baked beans, sausage, bacon, grilled tomatoes, and toast, ensuring your belly will be full for hours. Check with your hotel to see if they serve complimentary breakfast.
• Catch the Changing of the Guard : Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, completely free of charge. It’s one of the most iconic events in the city when the New Guard takes over for the Old Guard at 10:45 a.m. on certain days of the week.
• Picnic in the park : London is home to many world-famous parks, including Hyde Park and Regent’s Park. Pack a picnic or grab an affordable sandwich from Marks & Spencer and spend an afternoon relaxing on the lawn.
• Map out your day: To avoid overspending on taxis, map out your day and tube routes according to the attractions you want to see. Divide up your itinerary, clumping together sites that are closest to one another. After all, walking around London is one of the best ways to experience the city.

Of course, this travel advice only scratches the surface when it comes to things to do alone in London. Check out our London travel tips for more inspiration on the place that brought us The Beatles and The Royal Family. Now, pack your bags and get ready to explore the city on your own terms.

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Black Solo Female Travel Guide: A Solo Trip to London

Sharing is caring!

You can go on a solo trip to London 10 times and still not eat and see everything you want. And as one of the most visited cities in the world, London is on many solo female traveler bucket lists. After visiting London alone myself I now know why!

London has a combination of history, a variety of international communities, museums, and more. There seems to always be something to do. This post breaks down how you can make the most visiting London alone as a solo female traveler – and of course it’s Black girl friendly!

( FYI:  This post may have affiliate links .This means if you buy something using my link, I get a small percentage for mentioning/recommending it. Lucky for you it doesn’t change the price for you at all and it’s a super easy and generous way to say thanks for all the work I put into writing this post!! )

Table of Contents

Where to stay in London (hostel edition)

Clink78 Backpackers Youth Hostel

Clink78 is for those true, hostel, budget travelers. I can’t say this was the most luxurious hostel I’ve stayed in as a solo traveler. But it got the job done and did not cost as much as other accommodations. Located in King’s Cross, Clink78 grants you quick access to the Tube and buses while on your solo trip to London.

St. Christopher Hammersmith’s

St. Christopher Hammersmith’s was one of the first hostels I ever stayed in! Though I was traveling with a friend, I think it shaped my future hostel standard for solo travelers. They offer dorms to meet other people traveling in London alone and have their own bar called Belushi’s. Take advantage of the hostel bar with the discount and making strangers friends.

Click here for more information and the latest prices

How to get around while visiting London alone

The best way to navigate London as a solo traveler is through the infamous Tube. Get your oyster card and hop on the Tube to sightsee around the city. I also used buses and walked quite a bit to get around. I do not think a car is necessary unless you absolutely want to drive. London is a densely populated city and the traffic seemed a bit much at times in the touristy areas.

Where to eat alone in London

Maltby Street Market

Markets on markets on markets! There is no shortage of food markets that house some of the best food in London. From my conversations with expats and locals, Maltby Street Market is a lesser known market located away from the traditional touristy spots.

However a smaller market normally means better food (just saying). I ordered 5 seafood and vegetarian dumplings for  £7. Those dishes left room for me to eat more while walking to see the other stalls. Maltby was one of my favorite solo activities in London. Go on a Sunday to see it in all its glory.

Pleasant Lady Jian Bing

Clearly food is my favorite thing to indulge in while traveling solo. And for as little as £6, Pleasant Lady Jian Bing Trading Stall will have your taste buds doing backflips. I opted for a traditional vegetarian Chinese egg crepe with onions, herbs, and a spicy sauce to top it all off.

Pleasant Lady is a small stand not too far from the Leicester Square Underground stop and around Covent Garden. I walked past it twice before realizing what it was! Your food is made right in front of you and it only takes a few minutes to make. There is no seating since it’s a stand, so the chef wraps it to go for you.

Fellow travel blogging friend and London fanatic Briona Lamback of You Me Lunch and Travel said this was the food stand I NEEDED visit. She was right. This was easily one of the most flavorful meals. I recommend stopping here immediately on your solo trip to London!

Eat of Eden

Eat of Eden is located in one of the predominately-Black areas of London called Brixton. It is a must-visit on your solo trip to London for your vegan eats. They offer vegan burgers, wraps, salads, large plates, and other savory sides such as plantains, to satisfy all of your vegan needs.

Three of my fellow travel blogging friends and I shared one of their mixed plates for just under £17. With this plate, you can order 8 to 10 items off the menu in smaller portions to share. If you go with friends, I highly recommend this option and letting the chef pick your choices. It makes it more fun and who knows the food better than the people making it?  

Prince of Peckham

You can find flavorful food and drinks paired with a chill atmosphere at the Prince of Peckham . It’s a Black-owned bar that should be on your list of places to hit during happy hour in London! Their Prince of Peckham Rum Punch was the best drink I had during my trip.

Happy hour drinks are £5 and I ordered some shrimp bites for £7 to compliment my drink. If I had more time, I would have definitely come back for a second visit while traveling. I loved the vibes so much on my solo trip to London.

Camden Market

While solo traveling in London is is no surprise why Camden Market is one of the most popular spots. Camden was my first foodie stop and set the tone for what would follow. The Indonesian food I ate here was divine. My dish was  £8 and an entirely vegan, spicy mushroom curry with vegetables and rice.

However for context, I walked around the market 3 times before deciding on what to eat. Every food stand had their own cuisine, smell, style, and marketing to get you to eat with them. Pro tip: don’t be afraid to ask to try a dish! Many of the vendors are more than willing to give you a sample.

Clink78 was my hostel in King’s Cross and Half Cup just a mere 10 minute walk from me. I selected the pancakes with an egg on top and cheese in the middle for £9.50. The French toast also caught me eye.

Additionally, this leads me to another tip. To find the best food in London use Instagram! If I had looked up Half Cup and found their social media, I would have seen how delicious the French toast looked before ordering. Using social media is a resourceful way to gauge when finding things to do solo in London.

Brick Lane Market

Brick Lane is known for their street art and vintage shopping, however foodies come for the market that makes the street come alive on the weekends. I found my way to an Ethiopian stand called Ethiopiques and grabbed their vegan plate for £7. But best believe, there is a cuisine here for you, including Thai and Indian options. Similar to Camden Market, the vendors will offer you a sample if you ask. From there, you can find the best meal for you.

Yuu Kitchen

Yuu Kitchen was a pleasant surprise on my solo trip to London. For £21 I ate some savory eggplants with caramelized onion and a bao, fried tofu burger with a drink that had the taste of an alcoholic jolly rancher.  While you can’t sample food at Yuu Kitchen like I mentioned at Camden Market, I do recommend asking your serve what’s good. Servers often know what and where to eat in London better than us bloggers, so relying on their recommendations is always helpful. 

Peckham Levels

Peckham is another predominately-Black area of London. Peckham Levels is a colorful haven of food, games, and more, which makes it kid-friendly too. They sell dumplings, burgers, and other delectable treats. It’s under 15 minutes from the Prince of Peckham (mentioned above) and I recommend hitting them both up for happy hour.

Borough Market

Borough Market is another delicious market to visit on your solo trip to London! You can find Spanish paella and mushroom risotto made right in front of you. Borough also offers seafood, Ethiopian food, pasta, baked goods, and juices. On any foodie list, you’ll find that Borough Market is one of the best places to eat in London. I can’t agree more.

Beigel Bake

A solo trip to London wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Beigel Bake. Probably one of the most iconic places to eat in London, Beigel Bake is known for having the best bagels in the city. It’s located in the hipster area of Shoreditch on Brick Lane, surrounded by vintage stores and other foodie finds. I ordered the salmon and cream cheese bagel for just under £2.50; so it also makes Beigel Bake one of the few cheap eats in London I visited. It’s a perfect stop for all the budget travelers out there!

Furthermore, a little FYI: the line can be long! If you go here in the morning be prepared to wait. If you don’t want to wait, head here closer to the end of the day. Beigel Bake is also open 24 hours which gives you many chances to try the infamous bagels for yourself. 

The most popular tours in London:

• 🏞️ Visit some of the top attractions outside of London on this day trip to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and the historic town of Bath
• 🚌 Discover the grandeur of London aboard the open-top, double-decker Big Bus on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour
• 🚶 See the English capital’s top landmarks on this most comprehensive of London magical tours
• ✨ Immerse yourself in the spellbinding world of Harry Potter™ on this trip to the Warner Bros
• 🏰 Swap the bustle of London for the rural beauty of the Cotswolds on this full-day trip , including a 2-course lunch

Solo things to do in London

Tour the museums

London museums are free which makes them an ideal activity for visiting solo travelers. The National History Museum, National Gallery, British Museum, and many more are available for visits. London can be expensive to visit as a solo traveler so take advantage of the free things!

Check off all the London tourist attractions

If we’re talking tourist attractions, the list of things to do alone in London is miles long. Big Ben, The London Eye, Abbey Road, Tower of London, Tower Bridge – the list goes on and on! On your solo trip to London, prioritized which attractions you want to visit. You probably cannot go to all of them, but creating a list then ranking the most important ones to you is a place to start.

Learn some London history

For those who did not know, London is an international city with lots of history. From colonization to now they have shaped the world you we live in. The museums or a free walking tour can give you insight into London’s impact and how it has affected us all.

Visit the outdoor markets

As you can tell by the list above, I love a good market! One of the easiest things to do alone in London is go to them. Camden, Borough, Maltby, and more are top markets to visit and indulge in while on a solo trip to London. Eat your heart out!

Do all the royal sightseeing

Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Tower of London, and Windsor Castle are a few of the royal attractions you can do on a solo trip to London. You can visit Buckingham Palace on a free walking tour and Kensington Palace on a ride on a the Tube. But to visit Windsor Castle you will need to travel an hour outside the city.

Observe the street art in Shoreditch

One of the free solo things to do in London is look at the street art. Shoreditch is iconic in East London for the designs and creativity. While there are tours, many solo travelers in London create their own walking tour by perusing the area. The art can change daily so you can visit multiple times and find something new!

Thrift shopping on Brick Lane

Solo travelers in London who love to shop can find something to buy on Brick Lane. Though a mix of vintage and thrift stores, Brick Lane can be pricey but worth it. If you go on the weekend you can even attend the Brick Lane Market as you shop.

Find iconic movie scenes and photo-ops

London is known for being the backdrop of classic movies around the world. Platform 9 and 3/4 from Harry Potter is found at King’s Cross Station. The Globe Tavern (near Borough Market) is memorable for lovers of Bridget Jone’s Diary. And for nostalgic moviegoers who adore The Parent Trap, 23 Egerton Terrace is the faux address of Lindsay Lohan’s Annie James. Find your favorite London-based movie and visit the real-life locations!

Where can I meet solo travelers in London?

Meeting people while traveling is one of my favorite parts! And in a busy city there are lots of them to connect with. If you are wanting to meet other solo travelers on your solo trip to London I would recommend:

• Staying in a hostel to meet more people
• Joining London-centered expat Facebook groups and ask to meet up with people
• Joining solo traveler Facebook groups and ask to meet up with people
• Making conversation at a restaurant or bar with the bartender or other people at the bar
• Take a walking tour and talk to people on your tour

How much is a solo trip to London?

When finding solo activities in London, budgets vary based on your travel style. But if you decide to take a solo trip to London be ready to spend cash! Though our home country’s currency dictates the conversion rates, London is costly. Solo travelers should anticipate spending at least $15 a meal. It is one of the most expensive cities in the world so remember that traveling to London alone is not cheap.

Additional tips for traveling alone in London

A solo trip to London can be full of excitement. But remember it is impossible to do everything in one trip. The city is huge and there is a lot to choose from while solo traveling in London. Other things to keep in mind as a solo traveler in London include:

• Stay in Central London! Being in the middle of everything gives you easy access to all the sites you want to experience (especially if this is your first time in London)
• Book activities in advance to avoid waiting and long lines. If you visit during high season and the holidays, this tip will save you a headache!
• Do not a rent a car! I want to reiterate this because public transportation is amazing in London. A car is not worth the trouble. Walking or renting a bike are also possibilities too.

On being a Black solo female traveler in London

The good thing about being a travel content creator is the connections! As a Black solo female traveler and content creator I’ve met so many incredible people. I think meeting the ladies (pictured above), eating food, and laughing together was a highlight.

Aside from meeting other Black travelers, I did not have any issues traveling while Black in London. I know this is not everyone’s experience traveling in Europe. But as a Black solo female traveler I felt safe the entire time.

If you do not have a travel platform you can still meet other Black travelers! There are tons of Black travel groups on Facebook and beyond that cater to us. I love having the flexibility to be alone and also with people. I found that using social media is a resourceful way to connect and find like-minded individuals if you want the company.

Why London is a good place for solo travelers

It is no surprise that I support a solo trip to London! Due to the never-ending list of things to do alone in London that makes it a worth solo traveler destination. Similar to Amsterdam , the availability of markets also gives solo travelers a chance to wander aimlessly around the city. The weather is the biggest downside. But with the history, food, and attractions there is enough to keep anyone visiting London alone occupied.

Thanks for reading! PIN this post for more solo travel guides!

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( This post was originally published on September 3, 2019 and updated on July 16, 2022 )

Sojourner White is a remote social worker, train travel queen, and award-winning travel journalist. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been a digital nomad and called both Spain and Germany home. Through her platform Sojournies, she helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to find freedom and flexibility outside the office. Sojourner has been featured in Buzzfeed, PopSugar, The Matador Network, HuffPost, and Thrillist and written for Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Fodor’s, Insider, Lonely Planet, Viator, and more.

Hostel Tips and Tricks: Staying in a Hostel for the First Time

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I’ve been to a few of the places you mentioned but you have such a great list it makes me want to go back and try them all.

Yay! Thank you. Which ones have you tried already? I’m curious…

I want to eat al of this! My mouth is watering!

Lol good! That means I did my job haha

These foods look so yummy!! We just back from London and while we were there we took a food tour through Borough Market! So yummy!!

Ugh Borough Market is amazing! Hope you ate well

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England Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

156 england tours for singles / solo travelers with 1,273 reviews.

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Best of Devon and Cornwall (6 Days)

The only reason I didn’t give excellent overall was 3 of us were put in an Uber to be taken back to the Reception Centre ( an Uber who didn’t seem to know where to drop us - so we needed to trudge with our luggage a bit of a way ) and that made us feel a little flat as we started the tour at the Reception Centre and that’s why we booked a Hotel next door. We all were left feeling a little disappointed after a great tour. We could understand the practical side but we were disappointed that we didn’t get delivered to the startng point in our coach.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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Walk the Lake District

This was my first experience with Explore, and I am definitely looking into booking with Explore again.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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2-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford Small-Group Tour from London

Fantastic experience! Our driver/tour guide Samuel was the best! It was really a great time.

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

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London & Country

Wonderful trip! Fun places to visit with nice, friendly people.

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Cornwall tour starting in London

Dacey’s is my favorite tour experience in 30 years of traveling. Friendly and well-paced, with all the information you could want without turning the trip into a classroom. David is a lovely, warm and kind person who quietly sees to it that each traveler experiences the trip of their dreams. I’m eager to take itinerary 2 next year!

5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

I recently joined the travel tour led by the amazing guide Nick, and it exceeded all my expectations. Nick's knowledge, attitude, and organization were outstanding. He shared fascinating historical insights and made the trip both educational and captivating. His friendly and approachable nature created a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers. The fellow tour members were kind-hearted and punctual, making the journey enjoyable. The itinerary included both popular and lesser-known destinations, surprising us with hidden historical gems. I'm thrilled to have been part of this tour and highly recommend it for an unforgettable travel experience. Thank you for an incredible adventure

3-Day Isle of Wight and the Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London

My recent 3-Day Isle of Wight and Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. The people in our group were friendly and made the trip even better. Our guide, Mark, was fantastic. He knew a lot about the area, cracked jokes, and helped us a lot. His stories and knowledge made the trip interesting and fun. Plus, the breathtaking sights of the lush green landscapes and the mesmerizing sea views were truly amazing. If you want a relaxing getaway with great company, a fantastic guide, and stunning natural beauty, I highly recommend this tour.

4 Day Cornwall, Devon & Stonehenge Small-Group Tour from Bristol

This was a very nice tour. The weather was unusually outstanding. Our guide Dan was an excellent guide and a great driver on these small English country roads. He reallly went the extra mile to make things work. I recommend this tour.

London and Bath Explorer - 6 Days

3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Small-Group Tour from London

Dan was our tour guide who did an excellent job. Over & above. We were very happy and saw areas not expected

Stonehenge, Devon & Cornwall (Hotel) - 5 days

What people love about england solo tours.

It was a great adventure and experience, especially due to our excellent director Helen, an extremely cultured and warmhearted woman with a lot of historical and literary knowledge, not to forget her humour. Very intense six days with a full but balanced programme, including nature, culture and good food and fellowship. Thank you!

Our guides were terrific, and so was the Glaramara Hotel , both dining services and all other staff!

Was a fantastic trip. Our guide was the best. Our trip was Sept 10/11 with an overnight stay in Bath.

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Solo travel: the 'ultimate indulgence in 2024'

Why more of us are choosing to go on holiday on our own

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

The number of holidaymakers choosing to go it alone is rising, whether in escorted groups, or independently. And it is an active choice, not forced by an inability to find a travelling companion. 

"Rather than a function of necessity or compromise, holidaying alone has become the ultimate indulgence in 2024: a rare chance in this ultra-demanding world to put one's own needs and priorities first," said the London Evening Standard .

"Regardless of life stage or relationship status", many more people are taking solo trips, "not because they have to – but because they want to", said the newspaper. 

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And one factor fuelling the independent travel trend may be an after-effect of the pandemic's enforced isolation, which "emboldened" people with a 'now or never' attitude", rendering them "more confident than ever about spending time in solitude".

And that solitude can have benefits for our wellbeing. Research by Netta Weinstein, a professor of psychology and clinical language sciences at the University of Reading, has shown that there is a big difference between imposed solitude and chosen solitude, reported The Guardian .

"Having space gives us time to connect with ourselves, and connecting with ourselves benefits our wellbeing," said Weinstein. A key factor appears to be the sense of autonomy we get from being alone. "What we found was that, on any given day when people felt autonomous and competent in solitude, they feel better on that day," she added.

According to an Abta report, 16% of travellers went on holiday by themselves in the year to August 2023, compared to 11% during the previous year, said Travel Weekly . In the 35-44 age group, the proportion of solo travellers more than doubled to 13% in 2023 from just 6% in 2022.

The main attraction of a solo trip is being able to do what you want, when you want. Being on your own is a "chance to really savour the world around you – at your own pace", said Annabelle Thorpe in The Observer . There are "no compromises to be made, no itineraries discussed; get up when you want, eat what you fancy, do nothing or everything, talk to the friendly person next to you at breakfast, or pop in your headphones and ignore them completely". 

And this freedom can bring a change in behaviour. "When I'm travelling alone, I become the best version of myself," said Thorpe: "the most decisive, the most charming, the most curious. I see more, go further, strike up conversations with people I'll never meet again, yet always remember."

And it's not just for single people. For those in a relationship, differing work patterns and destination preferences also play a part. "Like many women who travel alone, I have a partner, but his life is a lot less flexible than mine and he doesn't always want the kinds of breaks I do," said Joanna Moorhead in The Guardian.

Research by online travel agent Opodo.com in 2023 revealed that 41% of us prefer to travel alone, reported The Telegraph . "It puts us in control of decision-making", giving us the option "to linger for hours in a museum without our partners or children having a meltdown, or to undertake a lung-busting hike to the top of a mountain to be made small by nature when our close ones prefer the indoors". 

And apart from the sightseeing, solo travel "gives us tranquil time for personal reflection and growth".

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Adrienne Wyper has been a freelance sub-editor and writer for The Week's website and magazine since 2015. As a travel and lifestyle journalist, she has also written and edited for other titles including BBC Countryfile, British Travel Journal, Coast, Country Living, Country Walking, Good Housekeeping, The Independent, The Lady and Woman’s Own.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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• Trivia Marisa Abela did all the singing in this film herself. She trained extensively to mimic Amy Winehouse 's vocals.

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