London has been considered a luxury destination for a solo traveler for a long time. With its rich and varied culture, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to visit the Tower of London, relax in a café or explore the iconic neighborhoods, it’s possible to do whatever you want in London. Below, we’ll delve into what to do as a solo traveler in London.
Firstly, why not take advantage of the opportunity to experience the city without the constraints of a partner or family? Take yourself out and explore the many markets that are spread across London. Markets such as Columbia Road Flower Market and Borough Market. Here you can find trinkets, antiques, and taste an array of street food and unique delicacies.
Another thing to do in London is to visit the countless parks that can be found in and around the city. From Hyde Park to Greenwich Park, there is a park for every budget. Plus, you can relax and take in the beautiful landscapes without being accompanied by anyone.
Solo travellers should also take some time out to experience London’s amazing theatre scene. From the West End plays and musicals to the cult classic midnight shows, there is plenty to experience. Be sure to take the time to wander around the West End. Here you’ll find countless shops for retail therapy as well as cafes for a pick-me-up.
Art lovers should definitely visit the many museums such as the British Museum, the National Gallery or the Victoria and Albert Museum to name a few. Besides getting to explore and learn, it is also possible to go to special events like talks and workshops at some of their venues.
Theatre Productions
The National Theatre in London is another attraction solo travellers should visit. Dedicated to producing of British theater, it sets the stage for some of the best theater performances in the country. Its season runs from September to July and the tickets start from as little as ten pounds.
The Royal Academy of Arts is a wonderful place for art and theatre lovers. Here visitors can explore the Royal Academy of Arts exhibitions and attend events. From plays to art performances, the Royal Academy of Arts also provides special talks, lectures and discussions for visitors.
The Royal Opera House is also a great place to visit and offers a wide range of opera and ballet performances. With over 300 performances each season, solo travellers will never run out of new things to experience.
Lastly, for those looking to take part in the vibrant nightlife London has to offer, there are countless pubs and clubs to choose from. Whether you want to listen to live music or have a few drinks, there is always something for everyone.
Food Tastings
For everyone who loves to eat, a great way to explore London’s culinary scene is to go on a food tasting tour. From food tours to cheese tastings, let your tastebuds discover an array of sweet and savoury delights.
For the more adventurous travellers, there are also beer tasting tours available. Explore London craft breweries and learn about the unique brewing styles, the taste and aromas of the beers and how to pair them with food.
If you’re a fan of gin, the city also offers gin-tasting tours. On these tours you will be able to sample a variety of gins from both small batch distilleries and large-scale producers.
Finally, in the historic center of London, it is possible to do a tasting of famous pub snacks and fine ales. Get to know the history of London pubs and discover some of the most beloved beers and iconic British snacks.
Yoga Classes
London is also a great place to find serenity and practice yoga. There are a number of yoga studios in the city, and classes vary from peaceful Hatha yoga to the more intense Bikram yoga.
At the same time, many parks host yoga events and classes for those looking to practice in the open air. Discovery Green Park, Hyde Park and Greenwich Park are some that are known to offer yoga classes and workshops.
For those looking for a more meditative experience, there are Buddhist centers throughout the city. At the Bodhiyana Meditation Centre, for example, visitors can take classes that range from introductory classes to more advanced courses.
If you want to practice yoga away from home, there are also classes held in hostels. Most of these hostel yoga classes are free, and it’s a great way to meet other solo travelers.
Take Tea or Coffee Breaks
Tea and coffee aficionados should definitely visit one of the many cafes that dot London. From high-end establishments such as Sketch or The Shard to local gems like The Monocle Café or Kaffeine, there is a place for everyone.
For those who want to go beyond the typical chain coffee shops, there are a number of hidden cafes. These cafes are usually hard to find, but offer a unique experience. One such place is the Coffee & Slice in Shoreditch, a cozy and eccentric café that serves specialty coffee and vegan eats.
London is also home to some of the best tea rooms in the world. The city offers a variety of experiences from traditional afternoon tea to more creative and contemporary tea rooms. Some of the more notable tea rooms include the Lanesborough and the Harrods Tea Room.
With so many options, it’s easy to find a place to relax, enjoy a cup of tea and watch the world go by.
Visit a Pub
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is to visit one of the many traditional pubs that are spread across London. Whether it’s an old-fashioned Irish pub in Camden or a chic cocktail bar in the West End, there is a pub for every taste.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not try a cellar bar in the City of Westminster? These cozy, underground bars offer some of the best cocktails around. Some even offer sing-alongs and karaoke.
For beer enthusiasts, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Belgian bars that offer a range of exotic ales to traditional pubs that serve local cask ales, there is a beer for everyone.
No matter which pub you choose to visit, it’s a great way to take a break from sightseeing, relax and meet locals. Plus, you can grab a bite to eat and taste some of the iconic British dishes.
Live Music Events
London is known for its vibrant music scene and is home to some of the best live music venues in the world. Whether you’re looking to hear a jazz band, check out a classical performance or head to a rock show, there is something for everyone.
The O2 Academy, for instance, hosts a variety of concerts from the biggest acts in the music world. It also has an outdoor arena for summer festivals and an indoor arena for winter performances. Other popular venues include Barbican, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Roundhouse.
London also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. From smaller indie festivals to large music and art festivals, there is plenty to explore and experience.
If you’re looking for something more intimate, there are also plenty of pubs and bars that host live music and open mic nights. Live music is a great way to socialize and meet people, and it can be a great way to explore London as a solo traveler.
Take a City Tour
City tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of London. Most companies offer a variety of tours ranging from sightseeing tours to themed tours that cover a particular topic.
Many tours also offer the chance to explore the city from a different perspective, such as bus or boat tours. These can be particularly interesting for those looking to take in the architecture and urban planning of the city.
Alternatively, visitors can join a walking tour and navigate the different parts of the city. There are also theme-based tours such as food tours or photography tours.
Whether it’s a walking tour, bus tour or boat tour, taking a city tour is a great way to get to know London and learn about its history while exploring the city as a solo traveler.
Relax in the City Parks
For those who want to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of city parks to choose from. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and St James’s Park are some of the best-known parks in the city and can be a great place to escape the crowds.
London is also home to some of the world’s best secret garden. These charming gardens offer visitors a tranquil spot to relax amidst a peaceful green setting. Hampstead Heath, Battersea Park and Regent’s Park are some of the most unique gardens that can be found in the city.
Visitors can also take a boat ride on the River Thames to take in the beauty of London from the water. There are a number of companies that offer boat tours, from day trips to dinner cruises and private charters for those looking for a more exclusive experience.
No matter which park you choose to visit, it’s an excellent way to relax and escape the city for
